Two teenagers are fortunate to be home and dry tonight after one was swept down a river north of Wellington today.
The two 15-year-olds were returning from an overnight hike to Kapakapanui Hut in the Tararua Forest Park when they got into trouble trying to cross the Ngatiawa River, police said.
Constable Alex McCormack said the river was rising from heavy rain and the flow swept one of the boys off his feet and carried him downstream.
“His friend made the right choice not to go in after him. The boys thought it was crossable, but underestimated the power the water was packing.”
The teen in the water managed to scramble to safety on the opposite riverbank. He stayed put and activated a locator beacon while the other boy walked to the end of the track to wait for police and family members.
“The Search and Rescue team were able to assist the second teen out and both of them were fine – just a little cold and wet,” McCormack said. “The fact they’re OK is a real relief given what the river was looking like.”
McCormack said the rescue showed the value in packing a locator beacon and looking at the forecast – lessons anyone heading into the outdoors should learn from.
“Both these guys did lots of things right, but it shows how quickly the conditions can change. If you’re heading into the wilderness, pay attention to the forecast and weather warnings, and don’t risk crossing a flooded or fast-rising river – you’re better to wait it out.
“Despite all that, they packed a locator beacon and used it when they needed to. And importantly, the one with the beacon stayed put after activating it, so we were able to find them without any trouble.”
The rescue involved Land Search and Rescue volunteers, the Rescue Coordination Centre, and local landowners — who provided advice and allowed the rescue team access through their land.
“They all deserve thanks for the parts they played,” McCormick said. “There are a lot of people willing to drop everything to help a stranger and we couldn’t do it without them.”
