Hyde Middlemarch Rd (State Highway 87), Otago

Further to the stolen car that was found on the Hyde Middlemarch Rd (State Highway 87) near Hyde, Otago after a pursuit.

One of the vehicle occupants was found in the early stages and indicated that his companions were lightly clothed.
Weather conditions in the area were deteriorating with snow on the hills and temperatures expected to be in the negative overnight.

Due to serious concerns for their welfare a search and rescue operation was initiated with a team being assembled.
While preparations were being made staff were pulled back from the hills to allow the 2 outstanding people the opportunity to make their own way out.

As a result they did move down from the hills and were picked up by Police.

Police have now apprehended the 3 occupants from the vehicle.
No-one else is being sought.