Search and rescue mission to retrieve tourists from Southern ranges

The tourists stayed in their car overnight until a Search and Rescue team located them this morning.

A group of tourists have had a lucky escape after becoming stuck overnight on a Central Otago range.

Three people were in a 4WD travelling up to Old Man Range last night when it became stuck. The group contacted police, realising they were in a tricky situation.

The weather deteriorated overnight and there was significant snowfall in the area, so the group spent the night in their vehicle.

They were located by Search and Rescue volunteers this morning, when they were assisted back down to Alexandra.

Senior Sergeant Ian Kerrisk of Alexandra Police said the group was well prepared for the trip, travelling in a competent vehicle with lots of food, bedding and heating.

Kerrisk said the group also did exactly what they should have in that situation.

"Once they realised they were stuck they had the common sense to stay with their vehicle and call for help, rather than try and make their way out on their own."

The tourists were checked over as a precaution before they carried on with their trip.