Hunters lost in Southland forest found by rescue crews

A search and rescue operation is under way for two hunters lost in Southland. Photo / Glenn Taylor

The search and rescue operation under way for two hunters in Southland has ceased as the lost hunters have been located by another hunter.

They are uninjured and currently making their way out of the forest.

The two men, in their early 20s, went into the southeastern corner of Longwood
Forest on Sunday and did not come out as expected last night.

They were not prepared for an overnight stay and were wearing hunting
clothing, with minimal food, police said.

They had texted family members on Sunday to say they were lost and would camp
out for the night, intending to walk out in the morning.

Police were made aware of the hunters' plans late last night and were
satisfied they were able to make themselves comfortable until morning.

Police sounded the siren on the police vehicle in an attempt to locate the pair today and heard firearm shots in return.

That indicated a start point location, and Police Search and Rescue staff and
two LandSAR volunteers were making their way into the forest this evening.