Trampers rescued in snowy conditions

Summit Rescue Helicopter crew assist one of five trampers flown out of the bush after being caught out in poor conditions in Kahurangi National Park. Photo / NZPA, Summit Rescue Helicopter

Five trampers have been flown out of the bush near Nelson after being caught out in snow and bitter cold in Kahurangi National Park overnight.

Three trampers, two aged in their 60s and one in the 30s, spent a night out in the open and were wet and cold after being caught by fading light and poor conditions, said Jarrod Colbourne of the Summit Rescue Helicopter.

Two other trampers, in their 40s, who had been trying to walk out but were blocked by snow, came across the three and the five made their way to Splugeons Hut this morning.

They activated their emergency beacon and were flown out by the Summit Rescue Helicopter about 11am today.

All five trampers were flown out in two trips because of excessive snow blocking the track.

- NZPA