Police say a hiker rescued from the Tararua Ranges did everything right by using a 406 distress beacon.
The hiker became lost during a solo hike meant to last several days.
They were found by an Air Force helicopter near Mt Neil on Friday morning.
Police said the person had a sleeping bag, 406 beacon and survival equipment which was crucial in getting them through the night.
406 Beacons could be hired from many NZ DoC Visitor Centres or outdoor hiking and hunting stores for as low as $10, and once activated, the beacon would alert New Zealand’s Rescue Co-ordination Centre.
“Let someone you trust, like family or friends, know where you are going and when you expect to be back”.
Mobile phone coverage was not reliable in the back-country, so 406 distress beacons were essential, and hikers should know how to use them and they should be registered along with the user’s information with the NZ Rescue Coordination Centre.
Even those who only planned a day trip should carry enough gear to stay safe in case the weather turns quickly or they became stuck.
Read more here:
https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/11/26/tramper-airlifted-from-tararua-ranges-after-beacon-activated/