The family of rescued tramper Graham Garnett said they are "overjoyed" by his return as new details reveal how the 66-year-old spent nearly three weeks lost and injured in the Kahurangi National Park.
Garnett, who had been missing and feared dead since December 30, was discovered at around 2.30pm on Sunday by DoC contractors installing signs at Venus Hut.
Disoriented by heavy cloud, he had taken a wrong turn that pushed him deep into the Tasman wilderness for 19 days.
His disappearance prompted a major search and rescue operation across some of the park's most challenging terrain, enlisting a Defence Force NH90 helicopter, specialist radar technology and multiple Land Search and Rescue teams.
The police search had been called off on Thursday after extensive efforts failed to find Garnett.
Tramper found in Kahurangi National Park after three weeks missing - see more on TVNZ+
Sergeant Jonny Evans, the officer in charge of the police search and rescue operation, said Garnett was "extremely lucky to be alive".
"Graham had been on the move much of the time, and had sustained injuries along the way," he said.
"He had tried to get himself out numerous ways, by following streams and ridges and finally finding the Karamea River, which he recognised, and which led him back to Venus Hut."
Evans said the operation had checked the hut, where Garnett would later be discovered by contractors installing signs, early into the search, along with other huts in the area.
In a statement provided on behalf of Garnett's family, they acknowledged the time and effort of police and searches on the air and ground, as well as the love and support of friends and family.
"We are also deeply thankful to those who joined two private searches. Your professionalism, compassion and expertise were exemplary," the statement read.
"To those who helped us in the field by providing radios, freeze dried meals and specialist searching skills and equipment we are truly grateful."
The family said they were "in awe of Graham", praising his "incredible self-reliance, resilience and perseverance".
"Words cannot express how overjoyed we are to have him back and we acknowledge the Kahurangi National Park as a place of rugged beauty."
Garnett remained in hospital surrounded by his loved ones, with police and his family reminding those heading out into the bush or back country to be prepared.
"New Zealand has spectacular back country areas and a great outdoors culture," Evans said.
"However, being stranded in the bush for days or weeks on end can be incredibly harsh and, in many cases, isn’t survivable. We want anyone heading out to take the appropriate precautions and come home safely."
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