'This one was tough': Tramping teens rescued after slipping 300m

Author: Hawkes Bay Today,
Publish Date: Thu, 23 Jul 2026, 1:19pm

Snow seen on the Kaweka Range. Photo / Michaela Gower

Land search and rescue New Zealand volunteers are being praised after battling winds of more than 90km/h to rescue three teenagers who slipped 300m in the Kaweka Forest Park.

Hawke’s Bay search and rescue coordinator Senior Sergeant Andrew Knox said police were notified of a personal locator beacon activation on the Kaweka Range about 4.50pm on July 13.

“While tramping, the teens slipped around 300m downhill and were surrounded by steep terrain.”

Knox said police launched a rescue operation to locate the group in challenging conditions - with just 30 metres of visibility at the time.

LandSAR volunteers were the backbone of the search.

“The boys had enough food and water to last three days, warm clothing, and moderate tramping experience, but we were mostly concerned about the weather.”

Knox said a helicopter was unable to reach the group under the conditions, so a team was sent on foot to retrieve the teens, but was unable to reach them before nightfall.

“The team kept in contact with the teens throughout the night, checking in on their conditions.”

Hawke's Bay land search and rescue volunteers battled intense conditions to rescue a group of teenagers who slipped in the Kaweka Range. Photo / Police

About 7am on Tuesday, the rescue crew made their way from Dominie Hutt towards the teens, battling strong winds and low visibility.

Searcher Mike Hawthorne said the job was challenging.

“I have done some difficult jobs over the years, but this one was tough, and it was the worst conditions I have operated in.”

The teens were located around 9.20am, safe, cold, and uncomfortable, with minor cuts and bruises.

The group used crampons, ice axes, and ropes and after four hours they made it back to the Makahu Saddle Carpark.

The teens were medically assessed and retrieved by family members.

Knox said police wanted to thank everyone who was involved, especially the volunteers who were deployed.

“The situation could have had a horrible outcome; however, the teens’ skills, gear, and equipment got them through the treacherous weather, and we are pleased they arrived home safe and sound.

“This incident highlights how difficult assistance can be when there is severe weather.”

Knox said it was always important to prepare for the worst and carry the appropriate equipment such as a personal locator beacon.