A missing hunter on Stewart Island was successfully rescued after activating a personal locator beacon, highlighting the importance of carrying essential safety equipment during outdoor adventures.
The man, part of a hunting group at Port Adventure's Bosom Hunting block, had left the hut with plans to return by 5pm. When he had not returned by 6pm, concerns grew among the group. After an unsuccessful search, which included firing warning shots in hopes of alerting the missing man, the group contacted Police at 9:40pm.
By 4am the next morning, Police engaged Southern Lakes Helicopters to conduct a search using night vision goggles and thermal imaging technology. Despite their efforts, the hunter was not found.
A full-scale search followed, involving Land Search and Rescue volunteer teams from Stewart Island and Southland, supported by Southland Amateur Radio Communication (AREC) volunteers. Dog teams from Queenstown and Wanaka also joined the search efforts.
At 10:34am, the Rescue Coordination Centre received an alert from the missing hunter's personal locator beacon. Southern Lakes Helicopters quickly responded, locating and winching the man to safety. He was flown back to the Port Adventure Hunters Hut and reunited with his group.
Sergeant Ian Martin of Southland Police Search and Rescue praised the coordinated efforts of all involved, saying, “This was a good example of the importance of taking a personal locator beacon when going on any outdoor adventure. Once it was activated, it led us right to his location and he was swiftly located and recovered.”
Police extended their thanks to the volunteers from Land Search and Rescue, AREC, and SAR Search Dogs for their crucial role in the successful rescue.