Whanganui SAR's Ruapehu training mission

Whanganui search and rescue constables Keith Thompson and Keith Butters take part in training on Mt Ruapehu.

Whanganui's Search and Rescue (SAR) squad have returned from Mt Ruapehu where they have been carrying out training in freezing conditions.

The SAR team spent Tuesday and Wednesday at Whakapapa carrying out training activities aimed at refreshing their skills and learning how to use new equipment.

The exercises were aimed at ensuring the teams are safe and work effectively if involved in a rescue operation in challenging conditions.

National Park Police constable Conrad Smith organised the programme along with members of the Ruapehu Alpine Rescue Organisation (RARO).

"I'm so grateful to these talented people for giving up their time to help pass on their knowledge and teach the SAR teams some valuable skills," he said.

"It is really important our teams are as prepared as we can be for all conditions we might face in a search and rescue operation so exercises like this are invaluable."

During the exercise the teams learnt avalanche recognition factors and how to avoid getting caught in one along with training in how to use ice axes, crampons and snow shovels.

They also learnt how to use avalanche probes to locate a buried person using a transceiver.

"One fascinating learning was that you can still sweat even in minus several degrees," Mr Smith said.

"Overall this has been a fantastic experience which has taught our teams a huge array of new abilities which will be incredibly helpful in future search and rescue operations."