Man rescued after wet night on Mt Ruapehu

Sunday, 15 July 2018

A 21-year-old man has been rescued following a cold, wet night on Mt Ruapehu.

Police were called at 5pm on Saturday night after the man did not return from a day hike up the mountain.

A search base was set up at Turangi and four search teams, about 12 people, searched overnight until 4am.

The search resumed at 7am on Sunday and the man was found about 12.50pm.

A police spokesperson said the man was cold, had a dislocated knee and was flown to Taupo Hospital for treatment.

A RNZAF NH90 helicopter, the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter, LandSAR personal, staff from Tukino Skifield and Ruapehu Alpine Lifts all played a role in the search.

Taupo Search and Rescue co-ordinator Senior Constable Barry Shepherd says the search teams did a wonderful job.

'Conditions were less than ideal, with very little visibility, rain and snow, so all credit to the guys and girls at the sharp end.

'It's a timely reminder to other trampers and walkers in the area to make sure you are well prepared for the conditions, let people know where you are going and stick to your plans,' Shepherd said.

Local iwi Tuwharetoa were also involved in the search effort.