Brothers stranded for eight hours
Fun competitions, games, hands on demonstrations, a DIY man cave and giveaways. Plus meet some of the Makos. Mitre 10 Mega Marlborough, Thursday from 6.30pm to 9pm. Three brothers have been rescued after eight hours bogged down on the wrong side of a Marlborough river.
The brothers got trapped without food, water or blankets after their ute got stuck in the sand while crossing the Wairau River on Sunday about 3.45pm.
Two men in their 20s and their younger brother, aged 9, could not find another way back across the river.
They were forced to wait until help arrived at midnight.
The brothers had initially driven into the area near Loddon Lane in the Wairau Valley, 30 kilometres west of Blenheim.
A police spokeswoman said the group were out for a drive before their car got stuck.
Tasman Senior Sergeant Nigel McMorran said the group called another family member to use a tractor to rescue them but the river was too deep.
The three brothers left the ute as they tried to find somewhere to cross back over the river.
McMorran said the group had no food, water or blankets as they had not planned on walking in the area.
Police were alerted to the incident about 6.30pm and Search and Rescue responded.
Conditions were harsh and poor weather prevented a helicopter from joining the rescue, McMorran said.
About midnight, all three individuals were located after officers entered the area on foot.
The rescued group was cold but otherwise well, McMorran said.
‘‘The incident serves as a timely reminder to always advise family or friends where you are heading,’’ he said.
‘‘And when heading out for a long rural drive, ensure your phone remains fully charged and that you are prepared for changes in weather conditions.’’