Four trampers rescued as rivers rise in Mt Aspiring National Park near Wanaka
Mt Aspiring National Park. Photo / Supplied
Four people have been rescued as rising rivers put trampers in danger in Mt Aspiring National Park near Wanaka.
A rescue team was scrambled to Siberia Hut after Siberia Stream became dangerous to cross about 9.30am.
A party of three who had activated their personal locator beacon were helped to safety, police said.
Wanaka Search and Rescue, the Rescue Co-ordination Centre and local police were back in action shortly before noon to rescue an individual who was unable to cross Makarora River.
Police warned people planning to tramp through Mt Aspiring Park that the rivers are hazardous with considerable flows and high water levels.
“With the current water levels and the upcoming forecast, the rivers are likely to remain dangerous.”
Trampers are advised to check river levels and speak to the locals in Wanaka before setting out on a tramp, avoiding the rivers in the park if possible.