Volunteers search for missing teenagers in Makarewa Falls. Photo: Police / Supplied
Quick thinking by five Southland teenagers who got lost on a bush walk on Friday night meant they could be rescued easily, police say.
The five were walking on Makarewa Falls track in the Hokonui Hills, near Gore, but lost their way after dark.
Police got an alert after 8pm from the teenagers via the SOS function on a cellphone.
A team of 10 Southland Land Search and Rescue volunteers was deployed and located the group shortly after midnight.
By 2am they were out of danger, "in good health despite some miserable weather conditions".
"Police are grateful for the positive ending thanks to the dedicated volunteers and would like to remind outdoor enthusiasts to be mindful that a lack of light can change everything," police said on Saturday.
"Unfortunately, the summer hours have well and truly come to an end with the clocks going back an hour a few weeks ago. What may start as a day walk could turn into an overnight trip faster than you might realise if you lose sight of the track."
They urged anyone else thinking of heading out to be prepared - let people know where you are going and when you expect to be back, have an emergency locator beacon, keep an eye on the weather forecast and take extra food and water just in case.
"Remember, it's never too early to turn back."