Rescue mounted for tramper in Lewis Pass

A rescue has been launched for a person reported to be suffering from hypothermia while tramping near the Lewis Pass.

The Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ) says the tramper was one of a group of seven on the St James walkway, just south of the Nelson Lakes National Park.

The group set off a distress beacon around 2.25pm. They had also been in contact via Canterbury Mountain Radio, and advised that one of their party, a 22-year-old woman, had suspected hypothermia.

The group is understood to be in a tent on a ridge above the walkway’s Cannibal Gorge Hut.

RCCNZ search and rescue mission coordinator Tracy Brickles said the Garden City Rescue Helicopter from Nelson had attempted to fly in to the area this afternoon but was hampered by poor weather.

Ms Brickles said there was limited visibility and gale force winds in the area.

“The helicopter is still hoping on a gap in the weather that will allow them to head in, but it is looking unlikely that it will clear tonight. However, the weather is meant to be clear tomorrow morning.”

RCCNZ had also assessed the possibility of sending a LandSAR team in to assist the tramper tonight, but weather conditions had prevented this.

Ms Brickles said the helicopter would attempt to reach the tramper again at first light tomorrow.