Reporter stumbles upon missing NZ father and son in Fiordland

A journalist tasked with covering the search for a missing father and son inadvertently took on another job when she stumbled upon the pair.

A journalist covering the worrying search for a missing father and son, who vanished in New Zealand’s wilderness three days ago, took on another job when she stumbled upon the pair.

Otago Daily Times reporter Luisa Girão was sent to Fiordland National Park in New Zealand’s South Island to report on the search for 49-year-old Alan Mortimore and his teenage son Danny earlier this week.

The pair left for a hunt on Saturday night, near Lake Hauroko, but failed to return, sparking a massive search involving ground crews and helicopters.

The chilly climate and wild weather left search crews gravely concerned for their safety but in a wild twist, and despite all the boots on the ground, it was Ms Girão who eventually found the pair.

Reporter Luisa Girão stumbled upon the missing pair. Picture: Facebook

Speaking to her own publication, the Otago Daily Times, Ms Girão said she found the pair wandering up a road just a few kilometres from the search and rescue centre that had been set up to find the father and the son.

“I can’t believe it,” she said, admitting her discovery left her in a state of shock.

Both Mr Mortimore and Danny were in a good condition, she added.

More than 30 people had ben involved in the search of Fiordland National Park, which is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist attractions.

The park is home to some of the country’s most iconic spots including Milford Sound and the Homer Tunnel.

Fiordland National Park has some of New Zealand’s most beautiful spots.

Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park. Picture: iStock

Earlier today, a police spokeswoman admitted their fears were growing for the father and son as the search entered its third day.

Searches involving a helicopter and thermal and night vision technology failed to turn up any clues.

New Zealand Police Sergeant Ian Martin told the Times the pair had little survival gear or warm clothing.

“Some other people who were at the campsite notified the police,” he said.

“They said they would be away for two hours for a hunt and they did not turn up.

“I don’t think they had much experience and they did not have the equipment necessary.”

Ms Girão’s discovery came at a perfect time, with heavy rain and thunderstorms forecast today, which would’ve hampered the search even further.