The group of three had been following tracks outlined in a book of 4WD trails in Central Otago and reached the Old Man Rock, but then became stuck.
They realised they would not be able to dig their vehicle out before nightfall and contacted police, staying overnight in their vehicle and being safely rescued by Search and Rescue volunteers about 11am yesterday.
Central Otago sub-area supervisor Senior Sergeant Ian Kerrisk said the group was well prepared for the trip, travelling in a well-equipped 4WD vehicle with lots of food, bedding and heating.
''They did exactly what we would suggest to do in that situation. Once they realised they were stuck they had the common sense to stay with their vehicle and call for help, rather than try to make their way out on their own.''
The group was in ''good spirits'' when rescued, and members were checked over by a St John officer but had no injuries or ill health, Snr Sgt Kerrisk said.
They were still in Central Otago but would continue their trip around New Zealand.
Mr Dance said the incident was still ``just another warning'' about how vital it was to be well prepared when heading to isolated regions. Weather conditions could change quickly or other things could go wrong, such as getting stuck, mechanical failure or a medical incident. The incident also showed how, for those who were not familiar with an area, it was a good idea to travel in two vehicles.
He said the group was lucky the weather had not been worse.
The group were stuck about 3km from cellphone reception, so someone had to walk the 3km to phone for help. Had weather become more severe, that could have been dangerous, he said.
