A woman trapped by rising river waters in Taupō Bay was rescued during the weekend following a coordinated multi-agency response.
At around 3.45pm on 29 August, Police received a report from a walker stuck at a crossing on the Wairakau Stream.
The woman had spent the day walking the Duke's Nose track, but with heavy rain battering the region, rising water levels made the river impassable on her return.
Detective Sergeant Paul Overton, Northland Police Search and Rescue lead, says the woman's partner had safely made the trek across earlier, but the water was now too high and she was stuck between two bodies of water.
"A coordinated rescue was established, with Police, Coastguard Whangaroa, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, and Far North Search and Rescue teams responding.
"Police and SAR teams set off from Marlin Drive, trekking an hour across the rising river and steep terrain to reach the woman."
As night fell, the walker was located uninjured and crews provided her with warm gear to fend off the cold.
The woman was in good spirits and said river levels had risen incredibly quickly within just five minutes.
With no sign of the water receding, the group walked to Lane Cove, where they were picked up by Coastguard Whangaroa and delivered safely to shore.
Detective Sergeant Overton says while the weather made for a wet rescue, previous trainings had simulated almost the exact scenario.
"The team had undertaken similar exercises involving rapid water, so it was encouraging to see that training prove fit for purpose.
"This was a great multi-agency response, with teams contending with difficult conditions for a positive end result.
“It also serves as a timely reminder to ensure you’re fully prepared before setting off on a hike.”
Make sure your walking route is well-planned and conditions are favourable; ensure your clothing and gear is weather appropriate; and always have a reliable method of communicating your plans with friends and family.
ENDS.
Frankie Le Roy/NZ Police.
