In other respects, LandSar Wanaka's statistics showed a return to a "normal" level of operation, following a less eventful year in 2007-08, when just 26 operations were conducted.
The trend has been for between 32 and 36 responses a year since 2004-05.
Among the unusual or difficult operations detailed in Sergeant Aaron Nicholson's report to the group were:
• The organisation's first search for a lost Alzheimer's patient in March. The man was found 13km from the point he had last been seen.
• The death of Wanaka man John Pawson on Mt Aspiring and the high altitude strop rescue of his climbing companion, Martin Hill, from just below the couloir on the southwest ridge.
• The disappearance of solo tramper Irina Yun, of Auckland, in the Cascade Saddle Area, resulting in a week long search. Only her pack has been found.
• The intensive and difficult operation to find and retrieve Morgan Saxton's body following a helicopter crash into Lake Wanaka in November.
LandSar Wanaka chairman John Taylor said the group's most valuable resource was its volunteers.
"The qualities of consistency, commitment, courage and skills possessed by LandSar Wanaka personnel enable us to save lives. These qualities, the equipment now available and training undertaken by you [volunteers] mean we can attain a high degree of professionalism," Mr Taylor said.
Both Mr Taylor and Sgt Nicholson noted the volunteer list - some 120 people - was overinflated. The two intend to perform a "cull" on the list and identify those who want to continue with training while screening applications from new members.
Financially, the organisation has been able to raise $104,800, with $87,544 provided through grants. The balance was given by families, groups and donations. The Lion Foundation has agreed to donate $10,000 towards the 2009-10 budget.
Members of LandSar Wanaka elected or appointed to positions within the national search and rescue organisation structure include Phil Melchior (chairman LandSar New Zealand), Alan Gillespie (chairman SARINZ Trust, a training organisation, and southern regional member to LandSar NZ), and Gary Dickson (LandSar NZ search and rescue advisory group).
