Thread: Search And Rescue

Originally Posted by Rushy

That sounds as though it could end with tears Dundee.

All good Rushy

Great work by SAR and police

"Missing backpacker found alive"
Police searching for the backpacker missing in the National Park area have
now found him.

A search team found the man just after 1pm today on the outskirts of National
Park.


Next notification was this. He's a lucky barstard thats for sure.


"Update 2 — Missing backpacker located"
The 28-year-old backpacker found early this afternoon by a search team has
now be taken to Taumarunui Hospital for assessment.

A search team found the man just after 1pm today on the outskirts of National
Park. He was flown out of the bush by an Air Force Iroquois helicopter and
taken back to the search headquarters.

He had been out in the elements for three nights and is suffering from
exhaustion and the cold temperatures.

“The search team that found the man were relieved to find him alive and I
want to thank everyone involved in the search for their tremendous efforts.
There were some moments where the weather looked like it was going to pack up
but thankfully it held and we were able to locate the man,” said Sergeant
Colin Wright, Search Coordinator.

The services of Victim Support are being offered to the man.

“This incident highlights the importance of being prepared before you go
into the bush. Never ever enter the bush without suitable and durable
clothing and equipment.

“Always let someone know of your plans, even if it is the proprietors of
where you are staying — especially the timings and tracks you are taking.

“Do you research and find out about the area you are going to explore and
especially the weather forecast, and if you are not an experienced tramper
don’t go for a challenging track, take one that is more on your experience
level.

“Also a personal locater beacon can be a lifesaver and it means that we can
find you a lot sooner. No one wants to get a call from Police saying that
their loved one is missing out in the bush. It’s all about being prepared
and making informed decisions,” said Mr Wright.

ENDS