Teens on hike rescued after one was swept down Ngatiawa River in Tararua Forest Park, Wairarapa

A teenager was swept away down the Ngatiawa River after getting in trouble while trying to cross it. Photo / NZ Police

• Two teens have been rescued from a hike in the Tararua Forest Park.
• One of the 15-year-olds was swept off his feet and down the Ngatiawa River while the pair attempted to cross.
• Police urge people to check the forecast and prepare adequately before heading out.

Two teens have been rescued while hiking in the Tararua Forest Park after one was swept down the Ngatiawa River.

The 15-year-olds got into trouble when trying to cross the river after returning from an overnight hike to Kapakapanui Hut in Tararua Forest Park.

Constable Alex McCormack said the river was rising because of heavy rain, and the flow swept one of the boys off his feet then carried him downstream.

“His friend made the right choice not to go in after him,” he said.

“The boys thought it [could be traversed], but underestimated the power the water was packing.”

The teen who was swept away managed to get to safety on the opposite riverbank.

He stayed put and activated the locator beacon while the other boy walked to the end of the track to wait for police and family members.

Land Search and Rescue teams rescued two teens who got into trouble during a hike in Tararua Forest Park. Photo / NZ Police

The Search and Rescue team were able to assist the second teen out and both of them were fine, aside from being cold and wet, McCormack said.

“The fact they’re okay is a real relief given what the river was looking like,” he said.

“The rescue showed the value in packing a locator beacon and looking at the forecast – lessons anyone heading into the outdoors should learn. Both these guys did lots of things right, but it shows how quickly the conditions can change."

The constable credited the Land Search and Rescue volunteers, the Rescue Co-ordination Centre, and local landowners for their help in the rescue.

“They all deserve thanks for the parts they played. There are a lot of people willing to drop everything to help a stranger, and we couldn’t do it without them.”

“If you’re heading into the wilderness, pay attention to the forecast and weather warnings, and don’t risk crossing a flooded or fast-rising river – you’re better to wait it out.

“Despite all that, they packed a locator beacon and used it when they needed to. And importantly, the one with the beacon stayed put after activating it, so we were able to find them without any trouble.”