Young hikers missing for 19 days in New Zealand found injured but alive in bush

Two young hikers who had got lost while exploring a national park in New Zealand have been found, injured but alive.

Jessica O'Connor and Dion Reynolds were found with "smiles and relief" after getting lost in the Anatori Valley in Kahurangi National Park, on the South Island.

The pair went missing after leaving for a walk with their backpacks on Saturday May 9. They reportedly got lost a few days later and were unable to find their way out.

The police officer who found the pair said they were spotted in "very rugged bush", just before 1pm local time.

Tasman police search and rescue officer Sergeant Malcolm York said they were seen after a search helicopter spotted smoke and saw two people waving at them.

They were both picked up by an Air Force NH90 helicopter, and were taken to hospital with minor injuries.

Mr Reynolds suffered a strained ankle and Ms O'Connor a strained back from a fall.

They walked into the emergency department with blankets over their heads.

Mark O'Connor, Jessica's father, who had been at the search and rescue centre, when they heard someone had been found, told Stuff in New Zealand the family were "absolutely over the moon".

Mr Reynolds’ sister, Stephanie-Lee Ludlow, added that she had a short conversation with with him, and she was unsure how they survived, but said they were “both happy to be out”.

His roommate Simona Barnova told Stuff: "It’s just awesome. It was tough [the last few weeks] because we have been trying to find out where they are and thinking of them everyday, and it was not pleasant.

“I can’t wait for the stories they’re going to tell us.

"We are actually all together [Reynold’s friends] and can’t wait to see him.

"We are calling as many friends as we can and sending messages with the news.

“I hope they are OK and going to recover soon.”