New Zealand sit-skier Aaron Ewen has been forced to withdraw from March's Winter Paralympics in Pyeongchang ©Getty Images

New Zealand sit-skier Aaron Ewen has been forced to withdraw from March's Winter Paralympics in Pyeongchang.

The 21-year-old Alpine athlete fractured his hip in December while training at Winter Park in the United States, and will not be fit in time.

He has instead returned to New Zealand where he underwent surgery.

"Ewen will be unable to rehabilitate, prepare and be ready to compete at the highest level in time for the Paralympic Winter Games," a Paralympics New Zealand statement said.

"Ewen made the decision to withdraw in conjunction with the Snow Sports NZ coaching and medical team.

Aaron Ewen, left, with fellow New Zealand athlete Corey Peters ©Getty Images
Aaron Ewen, left, with fellow New Zealand athlete Corey Peters ©Getty Images

"Paralympics New Zealand and Snow Sports NZ wish Aaron well with his recovery and thank him for his hard work and determination. 

"Both organisations look forward to seeing Aaron back on the slopes in the future." 

Ewen was one of four New Zealand athletes to be given an official farewell prior to Pyeongchang 2018 at Government House in Auckland.

He was joined by Adam Hall, Corey Peters and Carl Murphy in November with all four training overseas in the run-up to the Games in South Korea.

The Winter Paralympics will take place between March 9 and 18.