Trampers emerge just before search begins

Three overdue trampers emerged cold and wet from an unexpected night in the Westland bush today, just before a search party was about to start looking for them.

West Coast Senior Constable Paul Watson said the trio were found about 1.30pm on the Taipo River, near Jacksons, 68km from Hokitika.

The 29-year-old man and two women aged 29 and 40 had gone into the area on Friday and were supposed to return yesterday.

Mr Watson said the trampers blamed unclear track markings and a poorly chosen route as the reason they did not make it out on time.

Police had already undertaken an aerial search of the area with a helicopter before the three emerged.

- NZPA