Teen rescued after 18-hour ordeal in Hawke’s Bay forest during school hike

During an overnight outdoor education trip, a 17-year-old Taradale High student failed to reach the designated meeting point at Sunrise Hut in Ruahine Forest Park and was reported missing. After an 18-hour search involving police, Land Search and Rescue volunteers and specialist equipment, a New Zealand Air Force helicopter spotted the teenager and hoisted him to safety. He had fallen in the bush, sustained a head knock and was unconscious for a short period before being rescued.

The boy was flown to the search base, then taken to a hospital for checks, remaining conscious and relatively well. His father expressed gratitude to all responders, and the school community gathered to welcome him back.