Kahurangi National Park: Missing tramper Graham Garnett discovered alive in hut

A tramper who went missing in Kahurangi National Park has been found alive.

Graham Garnett, 66, had been exploring the Baton/Ellis River area and was expected to return on December 30.

After he failed to do so, a search and rescue operation was launched, involving Land Search and Rescue New Zealand (LandSAR) groups, specialist teams, the New Zealand Defence Force, the Rescue Co-ordination Centre New Zealand, as well as numerous volunteers and supporters.

When he couldn’t be found, the decision was made on January 15 to call off the search.

However today contractors working in the area discovered Garnett sheltering in Venus Hut at around 2.30pm.

The New Zealand Defence Force was enlisted to aid in the search for tramper Graham Garnett, who went missing in a South Island national park in late December.

He was then transported to Nelson Hospital, where he was reunited with his family.

“This is an amazing result. We are so pleased for Graham and his loved ones,” Sergeant Jonny Evans said.

The New Zealand Defence Force was enlisted to aid in the search for a tramper who went missing in a South Island national park more than a week ago.

“Obviously he has been through quite an ordeal and everyone involved in the search is delighted to hear that Graham has been found alive.”

During the search earlier this month, five helicopters were used, including an Airforce NH90.

Two specialist canyon teams searched the “steep” terrain with special equipment, while a field team looked across the search area.

Search and Rescue Nelson said in a Facebook post it was delighted to learn that Garnett had been located safely.

“[We] send our well wishes to Graham and his whānau as they reunite and focus on recovery.”

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