A 54-year-old tramper who was left behind by his tramping party after he fell ill on the Hollyford Track in Fiordland has been airlifted to a medical centre.
The man became unwell while spending the night at the McKerrow Island Hut, at the head of Lake McKerrow.
His companions activated a locator beacon around 7am yesterday, then left to continue their trek.
Senior Sergeant Ian Temple said it was surprising they had done that.
"Police are hoping to catch up with the group soon."