Central Otago police are praising the actions of a group of overseas tourists who became stuck following a 4WD trip up Old Man Range, near Alexandra.
Police say the three occupants of the vehicle had been following tracks outlined in a book of 4WD trails in Central Otago, successfully making the trip up to Old Man Rock on Tuesday.
However, when they attempted to travel further they got stuck.
Realising they would not be able to dig their vehicle out before nightfall, they then contacted police.
“The group were well prepared for the trip, travelling in a well-equipped 4WD vehicle with lots of food, bedding and heating” Senior Sergeant Ian Kerrisk, of Alexandra, said.
“They did exactly what we would suggest to do in that situation.
“Once they realised they were stuck they had the common sense to stay with their vehicle and call for help, rather than try and make their way out on their own.”
The weather had been fine but worsened overnight, with further snow in the area, and the group spent the night in their vehicle.
Search and Rescue volunteers in 4WDs found the group on Wednesday morning and helped them get their vehicle back to Alexandra.
All three were in good spirits and were checked over as a precaution, before continuing on their trip around New Zealand.
