NZealand teams search for UK hiker in national park

New Zealand search and rescue crews were continuing to search for a missing British hiker on Friday while her family remained desperate for any information.

Stephanie Simpson, 32, went hiking in the Mount Aspiring National Park last weekend and was reported missing on Monday after failing to arrive at an appointment, police said.

Video footage shot on Tuesday showed helicopters searching for Simpson over the mountainous areas of the national park.

Police on Friday said in a statement they had narrowed the search to the Pyke Creek area, which consists of "extremely challenging" terrain.

They were using two dog teams as well as cliff and canyon rescue teams, police said.

The Mt. Aspiring National Park is located on the South Island.

It is known for its rugged remoteness, its mountains and its striking river valleys. It is popular with both hikers and mountain climbers.

(Pic Credit: Representative Image/ Pixabay)