Injured hunter rescued from Tararuas

An injured hunter stranded for three nights in Tararua State Forest Park, near Levin, has been evacuated by helicopter.

The 23-year-old Waikanae man injured his ankle on Friday afternoon but managed to make it to nearby Waitewaewae Hut, where he found a Welsh tourist.

The tourist walked out to Otaki Forks for help and came across a Land SAR team packing up after a Mountain Safety Council River Safety Course.

A helicopter was sent to evacuate the hunter but was forced to turn back due to bad weather.

Sergeant Noel Bigwood said the Palmerston North Rescue Helicopter was able to reach the man early today.

He was referred to his doctor for treatment.

- NZPA