Trampers missing near Wanaka safe

Two young Dunedin trampers reported missing in the the East Matukitiki valley near Wanaka have been found safe and well.

The young man and woman, both aged 18 from Dunedin, were tramping overnight in the Junction Flat area of the valley and were due to walk out at 5pm yesterday.

The pair were reported missing after they failed to make contact with their parents by 7pm.

Heavy rain meant many of the rivers and creeks in the area had flooded.

Instead of trying to cross the flooded rivers and creeks, the pair decided to stay overnight and wait until the levels receded.

About 10 volunteers from Wanaka LandSAR searched the area this morning and by midday the trampers had been found safe and well.

A helicopter from Aspiring Helicopters was also used in the search.

Wanaka police Search and Rescue co-ordinator Sergeant Aaron Nicholson said the pair made the right decision not to try and cross the flooded streams.

"In the past we have had fatalities with people trying to cross swollen rivers and the like and in this case the young trampers have done the right thing.''

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