Grave fears for Milford Track tramper

A tramper has been swept away while trying to cross a stream on the Milford Track.

Police said they have grave fears for the 22-year-old woman, who was walking with her partner when she was caught in the Pompolona Creek and was swept in to the Clinton River around 3pm yesterday.

Searchers in a helicopter looked for her this morning and this afternoon but they failed to locate the tramper.

Police will decide tomorrow whether the search should continue in light of the severe weather conditions.

Her partner activated an emergency beacon after the incident and the Rescue Coordination Centre attempted to send a helicopter to his location however bad weather forced the helicopter to turn back.

Recent rainfall has made the Pompolona Creek rise and weather conditions are poor with rain continuing to fall this afternoon, police said.

A foot search is not feasible, however another aerial search is expected to go ahead this afternoon.

The woman, whose nationality was not released by police, and her Australian partner were visiting New Zealand and were walking the Milford Track after spending some time in Queenstown.

Police said they are working with local Department of Conservation staff and land search and rescue volunteers.

Add a Comment