Three trampers were evacuated this afternoon (Friday January 15) from the Williamson Valley in Mt Aspiring National Park.

The trampers were two days into a ten day alpine tramp from Jackson Bay to the Glenorchy area.

Detective Alan Lee of the Wanaka police said the group was well equipped for the trip, but called for an air evacuation via an in-reach device after one of them experienced difficulties.

It was not a medical emergency, he said.

The device notified the New Zealand Rescue Coordination Centre (NZRCC) via text message, and the NZRCC notified Wanaka Search and Rescue (SAR).

Alan said the in-reach device is similar to a personal locator beacon, but does not send a specific GPS location.

“It’s better to have one [of those devices] rather than nothing. Both of them have their advantages. They are a lifesaver,” he said.

A crew of two SAR volunteers plus an Aspiring Helicopters pilot flew to the site, which is part of the Olivine Wilderness Area - one of New Zealand’s premier wilderness areas.

A team of four incidents' managers remained at the SAR headquarters.

Alan said the rescue was “straight forward”, but took place in a very remote area..

“It’s a long way out there.”

“We made the decision to airlift all three of them out, because of the bad weather, including snow, expected on Sunday.”

“I want to thank our local SAR volunteers,” Alan said. “They are stars in what they do.”

Donations can be made to Wanaka LandSAR here.