Key Takeaways
- Graham Garnett, a 66-year-old tramper, was rescued after being lost in the Kahurangi National Park for nearly three weeks.
- Garnett was found by DoC contractors installing signs at Venus Hut, after taking a wrong turn and becoming disoriented in heavy cloud.
- The search and rescue operation involved a Defence Force NH90 helicopter, specialist radar technology, and multiple Land Search and Rescue teams.
- Garnett’s family is "overjoyed" by his return and praised his "incredible self-reliance, resilience and perseverance".
- The incident highlights the importance of being prepared and taking precautions when heading out into the bush or back country.
Introduction to the Incident
The family of Graham Garnett, a 66-year-old tramper, has expressed their joy and relief at his safe return after being lost in the Kahurangi National Park for nearly three weeks. Garnett was discovered by DoC contractors installing signs at Venus Hut on Sunday, January 19, at around 2:30 pm. He had been missing since December 30, and his disappearance had prompted a major search and rescue operation. The search effort involved a range of resources, including a Defence Force NH90 helicopter, specialist radar technology, and multiple Land Search and Rescue teams.
The Search and Rescue Operation
The search for Garnett was a complex and challenging operation, with searchers facing difficult terrain and weather conditions. The police search and rescue operation was led by Sergeant Jonny Evans, who said that Garnett was "extremely lucky to be alive". Evans explained that Garnett had been on the move for much of the time he was missing, and had sustained injuries along the way. Despite these challenges, Garnett had tried to find his way out of the wilderness by following streams and ridges, and eventually found the Karamea River, which he recognized and followed back to Venus Hut. The search operation had checked the hut early on, but Garnett was not found until the contractors stumbled upon him.
Garnett’s Experience
Garnett’s experience in the wilderness was a harrowing one, with the 66-year-old facing extreme conditions and challenges. He had taken a wrong turn in heavy cloud, which had led him deep into the Tasman wilderness. Despite his efforts to find his way out, Garnett had become disoriented and lost, and was forced to survive on his own for 19 days. The fact that he was able to survive for so long is a testament to his self-reliance, resilience, and perseverance. Garnett’s family has praised his strength and determination, saying that they are "in awe of Graham" and that "words cannot express how overjoyed we are to have him back".
Response from Garnett’s Family
Garnett’s family has expressed their gratitude to the police and search teams who worked to find him. In a statement, the family acknowledged the time and effort of the search teams, as well as the love and support of friends and family. They also thanked those who had joined private searches, and those who had provided equipment and expertise to aid in the search. The family’s statement read: "We are also deeply thankful to those who joined two private searches. Your professionalism, compassion and expertise were exemplary." The family’s relief and joy at Garnett’s safe return is clear, and they have praised the Kahurangi National Park as a place of "rugged beauty".
Conclusion and Warning
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared and taking precautions when heading out into the bush or back country. Sergeant Jonny Evans warned that "being stranded in the bush for days or weeks on end can be incredibly harsh and, in many cases, isn’t survivable". Evans emphasized the need for people to take the appropriate precautions and come home safely. Garnett’s experience is a powerful reminder of the risks and challenges of venturing into the wilderness, and the importance of being prepared and self-sufficient. As Garnett recovers in hospital, his family and the search teams who worked to find him are no doubt breathing a sigh of relief, and hoping that others will learn from his experience and take the necessary precautions to stay safe in the great outdoors.
