Thread: Search And Rescue

Another reminder. She was lucky.

"Police rescue solo hiker from Mount Tongariro "

A woman was rescued from Mount Tongariro this afternoon and Police are reminding hikers to take precautions in these testing conditions.

The 26-year-old was walking alone through the Tongariro Alpine Crossing before her crampon became loose and she slipped on ice.

She was heading towards the summit.

Finding herself in a precarious position and unable to move up or down the mountain, she called a friend who called 111.

Two tourists walking approximately 500 metres behind her heard also heard her screams and called emergency services.

Rescuers from LandSAR RARO (Ruapehu Alpine Rescue Organisation) quickly located her while in Taupo’s Greenlea rescue helicopter.

After being dropped off by the helicopter, two rescuers climbed down the side of the ridge and assisted her back to the ridge, before the rescue helicopter took the rescuers and her back to the base of Ruapehu.

Senior Constable Barry Shepherd of Taupo Police says the woman had a lucky escape as she sustained no injuries:

“She was very shaken, tired and distressed as a result of being stuck in such a precarious position.

“It’s been a beautiful day here but the icy conditions make it hazardous for hikers who are not properly equipped.

“It’s not enough to just walk with crampons in these conditions.

Hikers must have an ice axe too.”

Further safety advice for outdoor activities can be found at adventuresmart.org.nz

ENDS

Police Media Centre