Update 11am:
Missing Children Found Safe in Mavora Lakes Area
“The two children reported missing in the Mavora Lakes area have been located and are safe,” confirmed Inspector Mike Bowman, Area Commander of Southland Police. “Searchers found them near the lake, about 1.5 kilometers from the campground. They are currently being assessed by medical staff. I would like to express my sincere thanks to everyone involved in the search, including the dedicated volunteers from the Southern region.”
This news brings relief to the concerned families and the community at large, as the children’s well-being is ensured. Further details regarding the incident are anticipated as authorities continue their investigation.
Update ends.
Searchers have been out overnight in the Mavora Lakes area in Southland, after two children failed to return from a bush walk yesterday afternoon.
At around 5.15pm on Saturday 15 July Police received a report that the children, an 8-year-old boy and an 11-year-old girl, had not returned after going for a bushwalk from the campground at the northern end of Mavora Lakes Road at 2.30pm.
Teams have searched through the night and a further 30 searchers will deploy at first light today.
A helicopter has been brought in to assist the search along with Police personnel, search dogs, and volunteers from Land Search and Rescue and Amateur Radio Emergency Communications.