Four trampers who spent the night on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing have been rescued.
The group of inexperienced trampers was rescued early this morning from the Tongariro Crossing (file photo). Photo: 123RF
Police initially received a call from two of the trampers about 8.30pm.
They had become separated in snowy conditions from their two companions who had gone to Oturere Hut. All were reported to be inexperienced.
Police said those in the hut went back to find their friends, reaching them just before midnight.
Senior Constable Barry Shepherd in Taupo, said when they reached the other two, the woman tramper was in a poor condition.
"The two in the hut went back out and found their two friends and the three guys carried the woman to the hut. By then she was suffering the effects of the cold, she was hypothermic and not able to walk. Credit to those three guys, they highly likely saved her life."
A search and rescue team arrived at the hut about 2.45am.
Police said all four were now off the crossing.
