The biker set off from Kerikeri on Saturday morning, but underestimated the terrain and weather. Photo: 123RF
A Northland mountain-biker with hypothermia had to be rescued last weekend, after he became stranded in the bush.
Police Detective Sergeant Paul Overton said the biker set off from Kerikeri on Saturday morning, 4 October.
"He was aiming to push his limits on the Department of Conservation tracks in the Waimamaku Range.
"Unbeknown to him, he missed a crucial turnoff, and underestimated the terrain and weather conditions."
He said the biker contacted police at about 8.30pm.
"Fortunately, the man had enough cellphone coverage and was able to speak with police.
"We were able to get his exact location, via GPS on the phone."
He said the biker intended to bunk down overnight and ride out the following day, but as he only had light clothing and no shelter, and weather conditions were rapidly deteriorating, a rescue operation involving police and Far North LandSAR volunteers was launched.
The man had to be rescued on foot, which Overton said took most of the night.
"The tracks proved extremely challenging, with the team taking 2.5 hours to walk just 5km to reach the lost person about midnight.
"By the time we reached him, the biker was in a bad way. He was soaking wet, with hypothermia already setting in, and struggling to walk."
The search party took another four hours to walk the man out of the bush.
"A farmer, whose property borders the ranges, helped bring the man the last few kilometres across paddocks to his home, where he gave him and the rescue team hot drinks."
He said the biker did the right thing by calling police and staying put, but he warned people to make sure they were thoroughly prepared, when undertaking activities in isolated or challenging environments.
"With summer approaching and longer days, people want to get out and about, and enjoy Northland's great outdoors.
"People need to make sure they have adequate clothing and navigation tools, and know what the weather forecast is.
"They should also have some kind of communication device like a phone and, in case of an emergency situation, having an EPIRB [locator beacon] could save a life."
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