A man injured during caving trip to the Pearse Valley Rd area of Motueka Valley is being taken to hospital by helicopter.
Four other people are being walked out by specialists from Nelson Cave Search and Rescue.
Police were called at 9.41pm last night to co-ordinate the rescue when the group was reported to be overdue.
The four cavers stayed with the injured man, who is understood to have moderate injuries.
All five people are from a local school: two male students, one female student, and two teachers – one male, one female.
They were prepared and are competent and experienced cavers.
The group made the right decision to stay with the injured man until searchers arrived.
Rescue teams entered the caving system overnight and reached the party at an underground camp known as Salvation Hall in Nettlebed Cave.
They had to walk for about two hours to reach the cave entrance and there was a further 2.4km journey through the caves before they reached the group.
Police would like to thank local volunteers who have helped Police with this operation.
Media Advisory:
There will be a media stand-up today at 1.30pm with Sergeant Malcolm York at Motueka Police Station.
ENDS
Police Media Centre