Two US women found after being lost in Tararua Forest Park for four nights did everything they should have to survive.
Missing mother and daughter Carolyn and Rachel Lloyd Photo: NZ Police
Carolyn Lloyd, and her daughter Rachel, 22, were found at midday today, exhausted and hungry but otherwise unharmed. The pair had headed out for a day walk on the Kapakapanui track on Tuesday.
Sergeant Anthony Harmer said the women were experienced day walkers but they ended up in steep terrain and could not get back on the track.
"It is not clear exactly what has happened to them, but it appears that they have become disorientated and unable to find their way out."
A search was launched after the pair's rental car, which was supposed to have been returned yesterday morning, was found at the entrance to the Kapakapanui track near Waikanae.
The police said they were also alerted that the women were missing by student services at Massey University where Rachel is a student, and by the motel the pair were supposed to have checked out of three days ago.
A search began and a helicopter spotted them near a stream off the main track about midday today.
Mr Harmer said they had done all the right things when they realised they were lost.
Sergeant Anthony Harmer said the police were applauding the pair for their calm thinking. Photo: RNZ/Adriana Weber
"They've stuck together as they should've so police are applauding them for their efforts in regards to that and their calm thinking. They've stayed warm and rationed their resources out. They're understandingly a little bit worse for wear now just dehydrated and exhausted."
They had run out of food when they were found.
Carolyn and Rachel Lloyd had hired a silver Toyota Yaris car like this one (file) Photo: 123rf
The weather had been mild the last few days and luckily there was no rain, and the pair have been airlifted to Kenepuru Hospital where they were being assessed, Mr Harmer said.
"This is a great result for the team and we are grateful for the support of the local community and volunteers who came from Manawatu, Wairarapa, Horowhenua and Wellington to assist in the search."
Search and rescue staff and dogs had been in the area searching for the pair since around 5.45am, police said.
The Department of Conservation website said the eight-hour loop track involved several river crossings and a steep climb, and could be rough and muddy in places.