Police, Search and Rescue comb through Western Hills to locate lost tramper

A man had to be rescued from Western Hills in Whangārei after he became disoriented. Photo / 123rf

A tourist who misjudged how long it would take to hike a track in Whangārei was relieved when police and Northland Land Search and Rescue appeared out of the dark.

Police were called to help the lost tramper in the Western Hills around 5pm on Tuesday.

Northland Land Search and Rescue field team member Robbie Blankenstein said they assisted police, who were the lead agency in the rescue.

The rescuers went in different directions to locate the man who had found himself off track.

Sergeant Kevin Crawford said the tourist stayed where he was under instruction from the 111 operator and provided his GPS location using his phone.

He was able to stay in touch with the call taker the entire time because he had a portable phone charger.

“He was cold, wet and hungry by the time we found him around 7.46pm,” Crawford said.

“It was dark and he was very pleased to see us.”

Crawford said the man’s ordeal was a timely reminder to be prepared when heading into the bush.

“Take warm clothes, let people know where you’re going and check how long your trek is going to take you.”

Blankenstein said having a torch was important as well.

“Ideally, have access to a torch, which ideally isn’t a cell phone because that starts to get through the battery.”

Blankenstein said although the rescue was a simple one, it was a cautionary tale.

Those heading into the bush should be aware that even if the town seemed close by, danger was still possible, he said.

“We will always take the opportunity to say to people that even a simple ascending walk can turn into an adventure, and nobody ever plans for that.”

Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.