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Joseph was seen 6 km from his planned exit route in the Motueka River area. Photo / Supplied
A young man has been rescued after spending three nights outdoors and in the rain in the Richmond Ranges.
Joseph, a 30-year-old local man, was last seen at the Red Hills Hut in the Marlborough Ranges on October 31. It was due out at Lake Chalice on Wednesday.
When he did not come out, on Thursday his relatives raised the alarm, prompting a rescue operation.
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Three search and rescue police officers, six ground search and rescue volunteers and a private helicopter were tasked with searching for the man.
“An eagle-eyed helicopter crew member spotted him four miles from his planned exit route in the Motueka River area, an area that is very crowded and misled,” police said.
“Cold and soaked, Joseph had many blisters with his hands cut from trying to navigate his way out, but mostly unscathed and extremely lucky.”
New Zealanders are asked to always be prepared and not rely on digital technology or map screenshots to get out of the jungle.
Police thanked the volunteers who assisted in the search effort and the homeless people who provided information on their whereabouts.
Tips for the police
Plan your trip: Tell someone where you are going and when to raise the alarm if you don’t return.
Be careful with the weather: Our weather is very unpredictable and can deteriorate quickly. Check the forecast and wait for weather changes. Don’t go out in bad weather. Read and understand the long-term forecast, don’t try to cross flooded rivers, and have a contingency plan in case of bad weather.
Know your limits: Don’t push your physical limits and your experience.
Bring the right supplies and equipment – make sure you have the right clothing for the conditions and emergency rations for the worst case. Use the proper means of communication and locating devices, such as a personal locator beacon.
Think: If you have problems, can you ask for help? Who knows where you are? Do you have the clothing, food and equipment to keep you safe until help arrives?
