Three female trampers and their two friends have been rescued from an area near Pinnacle Hut this morning.
Acting Sergeant Paul Spencer says the five trampers (four females and one male) were winched to safety by Westpac Rescue Helicopter at approximately 10.40am this morning. "They are all well but extremely cold and are recovering in Methven. The weather conditions in the area are deteriorating and we urge anyone planning a trip over the weekend to check the forecast and postpone if necessary."
"The trampers set off their beacon which allowed us to pinpoint their location and shorten the time taken for them to be rescued. The two other trampers had arranged to meet the three females in the hut and were picked up at the same time as the females were rescued. The three female trampers were prepared for extreme conditions and were experienced trampers."
ENDS