A search and rescue mission is underway for three climbers reported missing after attempting to summit Aoraki / Mount Cook this morning.

The men were due to complete their climb at 8.30am today but failed to meet their prearranged transport, police said.

A missing persons report was made to police at 12.45pm today.

Police Search and Rescue and Department of Conservation Search and Rescue are working together to locate the trio.

A helicopter and specialist search and rescue personnel have been searching on the mountain this afternoon.

The search has been paused due to weather conditions in the area and "will resume when weather conditions allow", police said.