Police urge hunters and trampers to prepare before going bush following a spate of search and rescues

Police say it is a good idea to pack a survival bag when you're heading out into the bush. Photo/File

Hunters, trampers and bush walkers are being reminded to prepare for unexpected situations following a number of search and rescue call outs this week.

Hawkes Bay Police began searching for two women, aged 43 and 30, last night after they did not return from a day walk in the lakes area of the Kaweka Ranges - the third call out that the combined LandSAR and police team have attended this week.

Concerned that the women may have suffered an injury and were not prepared for a night in the bush, search and rescue teams began looking for them at 11pm.

Both woman were being located at 7.45am on Friday, tired, but otherwise in good spirits.

"Fortunately overnight temperatures this week have been reasonable reducing the risk of hypothermia," said Detective Senior Sergeant Martin James.

"Had it been cold we may well have had a very different outcome.

"Two of the three parties located this week were not adequately prepared for an overnight in the bush, but both made smart decisions to stay exactly where they were once darkness fell"

James said it is a very good idea for hunters and trampers to pack a survival bag when heading out into the bush, even if they are only planning to be gone for a few hours.

"Essential things to have in your bag include a cigarette lighter, personal locator beacon, compass or GPS, whistle, map, extra food and a survival blanket."

"We also advise checking with DoC before you head out to check what the track conditions are like, especially coming into winter when days are shorter and conditions are likely to be not ideal."