Southern Police Search and Rescue are urging anyone heading to the outdoors to be prepared after multiple search and rescue operations since the new year.
Southern District's Operations Manager Inspector Matthew Scoles oversees all Search and Rescue teams across the district, and emphasises that while conditions may be perfect when heading outdoors the weather can change in an instant.
"We are lucky to have access to stunning scenery in our part of the country, but if you're not well prepared there can be devastating consequences," says Inspector Scoles.
"New Zealand weather is unpredictable and anyone going tramping or climbing needs to pick the right trip for them and have the right equipment."
Two trampers were forced to spend the night after becoming stuck at a permanent snowfield while tramping between Moraine Creek to the Gertrude Valley on Thursday 12 February.
Police spoke with the trampers and found they lacked appropriate equipment and was not possible for them to backtrack, and due to the weather conditions, rescue efforts were stood down overnight.
"Thankfully the pair had sufficient ability to maintain their safety on the mountain overnight despite it being very uncomfortable and cold," says Inspector Scoles.
The trampers were rescued about 11.30am today after the Alpine Cliff Rescue team were deployed when the weather cleared.
"We have seen a number of incidents like this, where trampers and climbers have not researched or have been unequipped for their outdoor trip.
"We get even the most experienced people get caught up in situations where they need assistance, and any day trip has the potential to turn into an overnight situation."
