On 18 October 2025, my partner, our two young sons (ages 3 and 5), and I set off from Palmerston North for a family hike into Waipawa Forks Hut in the Ruahine Ranges. We were well-equipped, had experience hiking, and prepared for the stream crossings along the route.

Just short of the hut, I slipped on a rock while crossing the stream and struck my head. Although we reached the hut safely, I felt woozy and unwell overnight, waking with nausea and a persistent headache. Despite my intention to walk the two hours back to the car, my partner made the critical decision to activate our ACR ResQLink 400 Personal Locator Beacon. With two small children and worsening symptoms, attempting the walk out was too risky.

The beacon was set off at 9:15 a.m., and we waited in the safety of the hut as strong winds inhibited helicopter access. A Search and Rescue (SAR) ground team began making their way in. By midday, conditions outside were still severe, and we remained sheltered inside while help mobilized.

My partner eventually walked out with our 5-year-old to meet rescuers and provide details. SAR members reached the hut soon after and assessed the best way to get me out. When walking proved impossible, they organized a stretcher carry. Over the next several hours, a dedicated team of 13 rescuers rotated carrying me through the difficult terrain, finally getting me to the car park around 7 p.m., where I could be transported for medical care.

Looking back, we were only a couple of hours from the car park, but distance doesn’t matter when you’re injured, and conditions are deteriorating. A beacon may seem expensive, but in moments like this, it is absolutely priceless. It ensured my safety, allowed SAR teams to respond quickly, and made sure our young family wasn’t forced into a dangerous situation.

I’m now recovering well, and extremely grateful for the professional work of Search and Rescue, and for the beacon that allowed them to find us.