Two rescued after Lake Whakatipu overnight search
Two people were successfully rescued overnight following a report that the pair did not return from a kayaking trip in Queenstown.
Police were notified at approximately 11pm of two people missing after going on a trip on Lake Whakatipu.
Otago Lakes Central acting area commander, Senior Sergeant Fiona Roberts says, “Police Land Search and Rescue, Coastguard Queenstown, and two rescue helicopters were deployed to search for the pair".
“They were located on the shore in the early hours of this morning, in a good condition.
“While it is fortunate this incident was resolved successfully, this is one of the four recent search and rescue incidents in the last week in the Southern District, with one other involving kayaks and two with dangerous high rivers."
On October 8, one person died following a water-related incident in Milford Sound after a report of two people needing assistance while kayaking.
Police urge anyone going near water, no matter their skill level, to take the basic precautions to keep themselves safe in case something goes wrong.
Personal locator beacons can be hired for as little as $10 from many Department of Conservation visitor centres and outdoor tramping and hunting stores.
Police ask that anyone who purchases such a beacon register it at www.beacons.org.nz.
For more information on outdoor safety, helpful free resources and videos, head to https://www.adventuresmart.nz/.