Overdue fishermen flown out by Search and Rescue

On the 30th of September police were alerted to two fishermen who were over due from a trip into the Ohikanui River south of Westport.

The pair had sent their flat mate a TXT message to advise they were heading into the hills on Friday the 28th of September and due out on the 29th.

The flat mate grew concerned when he had not heard from them late on Sunday and raised the alarm.

A search was subsequently initiated which was hampered by bad weather and the lack of information regarding the lost party.

A local helicopter pilot, Alan Rosanowski, from Reefton was placed on standby along with several members of the local Search & Rescue volunteer group.

Fortunately a break in the weather allowed the helicopter in and the pair were located on the river bank in a tent. The pair were flown out and returned home.

They had run out of supplies, but still made the correct decision not to attempt to cross the river in flood, and stay put.

Neither of the men required medical attention, just a hot shower and a warm meal.

This incident highlights the need for people to leave clear intentions of their trip detailing members in party, purpose of trip, possible medical conditions, equipment taken, likely route, and an agreed time when police will be contacted in the event they fail to arrive.

In total 15 Land Search & Rescue personnel were utilised in the operation which included management staff, field teams and the Tasman White Water Rescue Team who were ready to be deployed into, and search sections of the river.