Wanaka Search and Rescue

26/08/2026

https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/weather/1147140/weather-live-highways-closed-as-rain-and-snow-trigger-warnings

Severe weather conditions have forced the closure of some highways in the South Island after more than 20cm of snow fell in some places, with motorists urged to reconsider travel.

05/08/2026

Twice last week, Wānaka Police coordinated search and rescue operations involving people in the alpine environment.

At around 1.45pm on Thursday 30 July, Police were notified of two snowboarders in need of assistance near Treble Cone ski field.

Two snowboarders ventured beyond the boundaries of the ski field to explore the back country before becoming lost for approximately six hours. At the time, weather conditions were extremely challenging, with heavy snowfall, strong winds, and near-zero visibility.

The search was complex and required the expertise of the Wānaka Alpine Cliff Rescue Team, multiple ski patrol units, and an aerial search team. Aspiring Helicopters operated in very difficult flying conditions, and it was only through the pilot’s extensive local knowledge, experience, and exceptional flying skills that search teams could be safely deployed into the alpine environment.

The snowboarders were located approximately one hour before nightfall. Had they not been found before darkness, the outcome could have been significantly more serious.

Police are incredibly grateful for the professionalism, dedication, and expertise of everyone involved in the search.

Wānaka is fortunate to have such highly skilled volunteer and professional rescue personnel who are prepared to respond in difficult and often hazardous conditions to assist those in need.

This incident serves as another timely reminder that venturing beyond ski area boundaries into the back country should never be taken lightly.

Anyone planning to enter the alpine environment must have the necessary experience, understand the current weather and avalanche conditions, carry appropriate emergency equipment, and have the skills to use it. Even a minor mistake can quickly develop into a life-threatening situation in alpine terrain.

07/01/2026

Teams searching for missing man Connor Purvis have located a body high on the southern side of Mount Huxley about 9am this morning.

While formal identification is yet to take place, it is believed to be the missing 20-year-old who intended to climb Mount Huxley late last month.

This was hard work, in a remote, rugged and high-risk environment.

Police would like to thank all those who assisted in the search efforts, including multiple local volunteers and search teams such as the Omarama volunteer fire brigade, also members of the public who reported information to help us understand our search area.

It’s been a long, tough week for all involved. This has been a true team effort and the good people of Omarama and Mackenzie have been providing incredible support to the search teams.

In particular we extend our thanks to the following agencies:

Oamarama Land Search and Rescue
Oamaru Land Search and Rescue
Wanaka Land Search and Rescue
Dunedin Land Search and Rescue
Mackenzie Land Search and Rescue
Otago Amateur Radio Emergency Communications
Oamaru Amateur Radio Emergency Communications
Mt Cook Department of Conservation Alpine Cliff Rescue Team
Queenstown Alpine Cliff Rescue
Wanaka Swiftwater, Canyon Search and Rescue Team
Heliventures (Oamaru)
Helicopter Line (Mt Cook)

Police are grateful to Connor’s friends and family for their input and assistance with the search. Our thoughts and sympathies go out to them during this difficult time.

07/01/2026

Searchers looking for missing Dunedin man Connor Purvis have located a body high on the southern side of Mount Huxley. "While formal identification...

02/01/2026

4WD Fundraising event details .... Saturday 3 Jan