Two snowboarders were rescued at Treble Cone on Thursday after they got lost and needed help making it back to the ski fields.
Police said the boarders were lost for six hours after deciding to leave the designated boundaries of Treble Cone and explore the mountain.
Heavy snowfall, strong winds and near-zero visibility meant they were unable to return to safety without assistance.
Police Sergeant Darren Cranfield called the search and rescue operation "complex", saying the police couldn't do it without additional aid.
"The search required the expertise of the Wānaka Alpine Cliff Rescue Team, multiple ski patrol units, and an aerial search team," he said.
"Helicopters operated in very difficult flying conditions, and it was only through the pilot’s extensive local knowledge, experience, and exceptional flying skills that search teams could be safely deployed into the alpine environment."
Cranfield went on to say that if the snowboarders hadn't been found before dark, the outcome would've been significantly worse.
The recent rescues have led to police reminding people to take safety precautions and remain careful when spending time in alpine areas.
An incident on Mt Aspiring on Tuesday saw two alpine climbers rescued after one fell into a crevasse and was believed to be dead.
Sergeant Cranfield said exploring the back country should "never be taken lightly".
"Anyone planning to enter the alpine environment must have the necessary experience, understand the current weather and avalanche conditions, carry appropriate emergency equipment, and have the skills to use it.
"Even a minor mistake can quickly develop into a life-threatening situation in alpine terrain."
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