Southern Police Search and Rescue are urging anyone heading to the outdoors to be prepared after multiple search and rescue operations since the new year.

Southern District's Operations Manager Inspector Matthew Scoles oversees all Search and Rescue teams across the district, and emphasises that while conditions may be perfect when heading outdoors the weather can change in an instant.

"We are lucky to have access to stunning scenery in our part of the country, but if you're not well prepared there can be devastating consequences," says Inspector Scoles.

"New Zealand weather is unpredictable and anyone going tramping or climbing needs to pick the right trip for them and have the right equipment."

Two trampers were forced to spend the night after becoming stuck at a permanent snowfield while tramping between Moraine Creek to the Gertrude Valley on Thursday 12 February.

Police spoke with the trampers and found they lacked appropriate equipment and was not possible for them to backtrack, and due to the weather conditions, rescue efforts were stood down overnight.

"Thankfully the pair had sufficient ability to maintain their safety on the mountain overnight despite it being very uncomfortable and cold," says Inspector Scoles.

The trampers were rescued about 11.30am today after the Alpine Cliff Rescue team were deployed when the weather cleared.

"We have seen a number of incidents like this, where trampers and climbers have not researched or have been unequipped for their outdoor trip.

"We get even the most experienced people get caught up in situations where they need assistance, and any day trip has the potential to turn into an overnight situation."

If you are going outdoors, no matter if it is hiking, hunting, or climbing, please follow the five simple steps of the Land Safety Code:

Choose the right trip for you

Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it.

It is important to choose a trip that suits everyone in your group.

When you are looking at options, make sure to think about everyone's fitness levels and experience in the outdoors.

Understand the weather

New Zealand weather can change fast.

Check the forecast and change your plans if needed.

Weather can make or break a trip.

It is one of the most important things to consider when going into the outdoors.

Pack warm clothes and extra food

Prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out.

Any trip, even if it is short and easy, needs preparation.

Packing the right things can make trips safer and more enjoyable.

Share your plans

Telling a trusted person about your trip details and taking a personal locator beacon can save your life.

We all want our trips to go as planned - but sometimes they don't.

If you get hurt or lost on your trip, how would you get help? Leaving trip intentions

Take care of yourself and each other

Eat, drink, and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together.

Always carry two forms of communication.

The best way to enjoy your experience in the outdoors and make it home safely is to look out for one another.

Distress beacons can be hired for as little as $10 from many Department of Conservation Visitor Centres, and outdoor tramping and hunting stores.

If you have purchased a beacon, make sure to register it at www.beacons.org.nz

More information on trip planning can be found at: Trip Planning — NZMSC