At around 1.45pm on Thursday 30 July, Police were notified of two snowboarders in need of assistance near Treble Cone ski field. Two snowboarders ventured beyond the boundaries of the ski field to explore the back country before becoming lost for approximately six hours. At the time, weather conditions were extremely challenging, with heavy snowfall, strong winds, and near-zero visibility. The search was complex and required the expertise of the Wānaka Alpine Cliff Rescue Team, multiple ski patrol units, and an aerial search team. This incident serves as another timely reminder that venturing beyond ski area boundaries into the back country should never be taken lightly.