Five men in their late teens have been rescued after getting lost on the Makarewa Falls track in the Hokonui Hills last night (26 Apr).

Hall Road leads to the start of the Makarewa Falls track in the Hokonui Hills. Photo: Google Maps

The Makarewa Falls loop track which opened in 2021 after a community effort by the Winton Rotary Club, is accessable off Hall and Mandeville Roads in the Otapiri Gorge and features a 24m waterfall - reportedly the highest in lowland Southland.

Police were alerted around 8.15pm last night, via the SOS function on their cell phone, that the group had unexpectedly been caught out while walking, losing the track in failing light.

After using the emergency function on their cell phone the group started a fire.

Ten Southland Land Search and Rescue volunteers were deployed supported by Amateur Radio Emergency Communications (AREC) and located the group shortly after midnight.

The group arrived in the car park at 2am in good health despite some miserable weather conditions.

Police said they were grateful for the positive ending and thanked the team of dedicated volunteers

Police reminded outdoor enthusiasts to be mindful that a lack of light can change everything, especially since the summer hours has now come to an end.

What may start as a day walk could turn into an overnight trip faster than you might realise if you lose sight of the track, they said.

It’s essential to be prepared before you set out on your walk, some good tips before you think about heading:

• Before you go let family and/or friends know where you’re going, and when to expect you back.
• Have an emergency locator beacon, these can be purchased from outdoor stores or hired from your closest DOC centre.
• Take weather forecasts seriously and wear the correct clothing.
• Have enough food and water should you have to spend extra time outdoors.
• Remember, it’s never too early to turn back!