Five people have been rescued, after getting lost on the Makarewa Falls track, in Southland's Hokonui Hills

Police were alerted just after eight last night that a group in their late teens had unexpectedly been caught out while walking, losing the track in failing light.

The group alerted police via the SOS function on their phone before lighting a fire.

A team of 10 Southland Land Search and Rescue volunteers, located the group shortly after midnight.

Police are reminding people to be prepared as a day walk could quickly turn into an overnight trip.