Injured woman winched off Mt Sebastopol

The 20-year-old woman from Palmerston North had inadvertently tramped off-route. Photo / Thinkstock

A woman was winched off Mt Sebastopol yesterday after becoming stuck on the mountain during a day hike.

The 20-year-old woman from Palmerston North had inadvertently tramped off-route and became bluffed on her descent from the mountain, police said. She called emergency services using her mobile phone shortly before 2pm.

The woman had set off for a day hike up Mt Sebastopol on her own, but turned back before she reached the summit.

A Heli Lines Helicopter, with three members of the DOC Alpine Rescue Team on board, flew to her location around 3.30pm. Using a long-line strop, the team winched her off the bluff before flying back to Aoraki Mt Cook Emergency Centre, police said.

"The woman was uninjured but was very grateful to everyone who helped rescue her," police said.

"This is a timely reminder for everyone who is visiting the high country and mountains in Canterbury to tell someone they trust where they are going and when they are going to be back.

"This hiker did the right thing by stopping and calling for help when she realised she couldn't proceed safely. It's also a good idea to hire a personal locator beacon, particularly if you're heading out on a tramp on your own, so that you can raise the alarm if you don't have a cell phone signal."

Prospective hikers were advised to visit the local Department of Conservation visitor centre before a tramp, particular if you are unfamiliar with the area, or talk to other tramping groups which know the area well.