Three runners found in Rotoma Forest

Three missing runners missing near Lake Rotoma have been found in the Rotoma Forest by a search and rescue team.

Eastern Bay of Plenty Search and Rescue Co-ordinator, Sergeant Andrew O’Reilly, says the trio are safe and well.

He says it will take approximately three hours for the trio and the search and rescue team to get out of the Forest.

“We haven’t been able to speak to the trio in great detail at this stage so we are still unclear as to what went wrong for them. We will have the opportunity to speak with them once they are safely back at one of our Police Stations.

“The most important thing right now is that they have been found and that they are safe and well.

“I would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who has been involved in the past 18 hours, at a time when many of our volunteers and supporters are taking a well earned break to celebrate the festive season with their family and friends.”

A final update will be provided later today once further details are known.

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