Graham Garnett. Photo: Supplied/NZ PoliceTwo people who stumbled upon a tramper missing for almost three weeks in the upper South Island were in the right place at the right time. "We are thrilled with the great news and while being immensely proud of our staff, there was a huge amount of luck involved. A West Coast Regional Council environmental sciences group manager Shanti Morgan said two staff members were involved in the rescue of the missing tramper from Venus Hut on Sunday along with helicopter staff and others. Four specialist canyon teams, as well as a Defence Force NH90 helicopter, were involved in the search.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 19, 2026 00:15 UTC