Tauranga police search and rescue Sergeant Craig Madden said the woman tried to retrace her steps once she realised she had taken a wrong turn but became disorientated.
"She then did all the right things, she stayed calm and once she found a location with cell phone coverage (although limited) called police for help. She stayed put and built herself a bivvy for shelter before the daylight went. The search and rescue members who found her said she would give Griz Bear a run for his money. "
"Although she did the right things after she was lost she should have left an intention trip with a friend or in view in her car and trampers should always take sufficient supplies in case of emergencies," he said.