'Huge amount of luck' led to discover of tramper missing since last year

A tramper who was found weeks after he disappeared in South Island bush had taken a wrong turn, police have revealed.

Graham Garnett, 66, was found sheltering in a hut in Kahurangi National Park by a helicopter pilot and council staff member on Sunday afternoon, 19 days after he was reported overdue. Police said on Monday he was injured but "extremely lucky to be alive", while his family say they are in "awe" of his survival instincts.

"Graham had been on the move much of the time, and had sustained injuries along the way," Police Search and Rescue sergeant Jonny Evans said.

"He had tried to get himself out numerous ways, by following streams and ridges and finally finding the Karamea River, which he recognised, and which led him back to Venus Hut.

"As part of an extensive police-led operation, Land Search and Rescue staff had checked the hut early into the search, along with other huts in the area.

Heliventures NZ chief executive Nicki McMillan said the two people who found Garnett were installing signs at Venus Hut ahead of a pest control operation. Garrett had arrived at the hut just a day or so before.

"We are thrilled with the great news and while being immensely proud of our staff, there was a huge amount of luck involved. We were in the right place at the right time and are extremely happy and relieved for Graham and his family and friends, who have undoubtedly been through an extremely difficult time over the past few weeks," McMillan said.

Garnett's family did not know if they would see him again and wanted to ensure his ordeal reminded others to take safety precautions before heading into the bush.

He remained in hospital, surrounded by his loved ones. His family have requested privacy, but issued the following statement:

"We, the family of Graham Garnett, have been overwhelmed by the support given to us as we searched for Graham.

"We want to acknowledge the time and effort put in by the NZ Police and Land Search and Rescue including searchers on the ground, in the rivers and in the air.

"We are also deeply thankful to those who joined two private searches.

"Your professionalism, compassion and expertise were exemplary.

"To those who helped us in the field by providing radios, freeze dried meals and specialist searching skills and equipment we are truly grateful.

"We also thank friends and family who gave love and support in many different ways.

"Last but not least, we are in awe of Graham, his incredible self-reliance, resilience and perseverance.

Words cannot express how overjoyed we are to have him back and we acknowledge the Kahurangi National Park as a place of rugged beauty."

Police search and rescue said they would suspend their extensive search for Garnett last week.

Four specialist canyon teams, as well as a Defence Force NH90 helicopter, were involved in the search.

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