An investigation has been launched by the organisation caring for the man who fell to his death near Rakaia Gorge while trying to take a photo.
Forty-seven-year-old Daryl Kitto was with carers from mental health service Emerge Aotearoa on Sunday when he tripped or lost his balance, falling 30 metres down a steep face and hitting a tree.
It's understood Mr Kitto, who died at the scene, was with two Emerge Aotearoa carers at the time, one of whom may have been taking the photo.
In a statement its chief executive, Barbara Disley, said the "tragic accident is being investigated".
"At this stage our focus is on supporting the people who were close to him and the people who were with him at the time."
Ms Disley said it would be inappropriate to make further comment.
WorkSafe New Zealand has been notified and is making inquiries in to the incident.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Health said Emerge Aotearoa provided notifications following the death and that they'll receive a more detailed incident form as soon as it is available.
The Ministry will review the incident form and determine what actions to take.
It extended its sympathy to those close to Mr Kitto.
The spot on State Highway 77 where the incident occurred is a popular one for tourists to take pictures.
"It doesn't seem dangerous to us, I mean we came out cautiously and looked over at the scenery and it's absolutely breathtaking," said American tourist Gino Klein.
"I would imagine if you are caught up in looking at the beauty and not paying attention to where you're placing your feet there might be a chance you could tumble off."
An Australian tourist believed the area should have barriers.
"If it was in Australia it probably would. I guess if you're trying to get a shot and not concentrating you could fall over the edge," they said.
Another tourist spoken to by Newshub said it didn't look like a killer cliff.
"If you fell over backwards and hit your head on something on the way down, you know, anything could happen."
The general consensus was to take appropriate steps to minimise the risks.
"You just have to be careful and be mindful and be cautious of your surroundings" said American tourist Trish Klein.
Newshub.
