A mass rescue operation is underway near Arrowtown, Otago with six people airlifted to hospital so far.
The Rescue Coordination Centre said in a statement they were first alerted to a developing situation following a beacon activation at 1am Wednesday. Since then, eight further personal locator beacons have been activated.
Rescue Coordination Centre Operations Manager Michael Clulow said they have so far airlifted six people from the area, transporting them to Queenstown Lakes Hospital.
The Southern Lakes Ultra Marathon is currently running in the area. Clulow said at least 110 people are in the area associated with this event.
There has been heavy rain in the area, causing the Arrow River to rise and the weather is forecast to remain inclement over the next 24 hours.
A Metservice heavy rain watch is currently in place for Otago, with heavy rainfalls possible.
Clulow said this is a complex response, and they are working closely with search and rescue partners and the race organisers to understand the needs of the people in the area.
More to come.
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