Two tourists rescued from Tongariro Crossing

FILE

Two female tourists in their early 20s had to be rescued from the Tongariro Crossing on Saturday.

The Taupo-based Greenlea Rescue Helicopter was called to the track twice during the afternoon to help the women, who were in separate tramping groups.

A rescue helicopter spokesman said a Swedish woman was suffering asthma-related breathing difficulties while a German woman had collapsed due to dehydration and exhaustion.

He said they were rescued from locations about 500m apart.

The women were both flown to Taupo Hospital.