Missing youths lifted to safety from bush

Two lost youths were found in the bush before they were reported missing.

Senior Constable Barry Shepherd said the two 17-year-olds entered Kaimanawa Forest Park early on Saturday morning and were lost by lunchtime.

Late in the afternoon they found their way to a high point south of the Hinemaiaia Stream, and stayed there until an aeroplane pilot spotted them waving and saw smoke from their fire.

The Lion Foundation Rescue helicopter flew them out.