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A jetboat reported overdue last night from a trip up the Arawhata River in south Westland has been located, police say.
Constable Sean Judd, of West Coast Search and Rescue (SAR), said the boat and its four occupants were located this morning by an SAR team from Haast.
The private hunting party had been in the area, near Jackson Bay, all week. They were expected back yesterday.
Mr Judd said because of all their gear, the group had to make several trips.
"They got one trip out with their gear, and one member of the party, dropped them off near the vehicles and the jet boat operator shot back in," Mr Judd said.
On the return journey, the boat ran aground and the three remaining people were unable to refloat the boat.
Two of the men walked out and raised the alarm.
The SAR team this morning was able to help refloat the boat, and everyone was now out safe and well, Mr Judd said.
- NZPA
