Police are praising Land Search and Rescue (LandSAR) volunteers who retrieved three teenagers after getting into trouble while tramping in Kaweka Forest Park last week.
Hawke’s Bay Search and Rescue Coordinator Senior Sergeant Andrew Knox says about 4.50pm on Monday 13 July, Police were notified of a personal locator beacon activation on the Kaweka Range.
“While tramping the teens slipped around 300 metres downhill and were surrounded by steep terrain.”
Police launched a rescue operation to locate the teens, with volunteers from LandSAR the backbone of the search.
“The boys had enough food and water to last three days, warm clothing, and moderate tramping experience, but we were mostly concerned about the weather.
“A helicopter would not have been able to reach the group due to the conditions, so a team was sent on foot to retrieve the teens,” says Senior Sergeant Knox.
While having been deployed as soon as possible, the LandSAR team were unable to reach the teens before nightfall due to the horrible weather.
“The team kept in contact with the teens throughout the night, checking in on their conditions.”
At around 7am on Tuesday the LandSAR team made their way from Dominie Hutt towards the teens, battling 50 knot winds and 30 metre visibility.
The group was located around 9.20am, and while they had minor cuts and bruises, and were cold and uncomfortable, they were safe.
After having walked for four hours, and used crampons, ice axes, and ropes, the group made it back to the Makahu Saddle Carpark.
The teens were medically assessed and retrieved by family members.
Police would like to thank everyone who was involved in this rescue operation, especially the LandSAR volunteers who were deployed.
“The situation could have had a horrible outcome, however the teen’s skills, gear, and equipment go them through the treacherous weather, and we are pleased they arrived home safe and sound.”
This incident highlights how difficult assistance can be when there is severe weather. Even when help is on the way, it could be delayed.
It is important to always prepare for the worst and carry the appropriate equipment such as a personal locator beacon.
LandSAR volunteer Mike Hawthorne says, “I have done some difficult jobs over the years, but this one was tough and it was the worst conditions I have operated in.”
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre