WanderSearch Wairarapa
Tracking systems that bring
wanderers safely home
What is WanderSearch Wairarapa?
WanderSearch tracking system is a tool that aids Search and Rescue staff. When called, the Search and Rescue teams will use WanderSearch and other search methods as required in an effort to locate the missing person.
WanderSearch has proven to be a highly successful tool for location wanderers. However it is not a 100% guarantee that the missing person will be located immediately. Although the system works extremely well there are many variables that can limit its effectiveness. These may include atmospheric conditions, vicinity of large buildings, location of the pendant, battery life and the skill of the operator.
Frequently Asked Questions
The WanderSearch Tracking System is used by Land Search and Rescue, and NZ Police, to search for people living with Dementia/Autism or other Cognitive Conditions who have the potential to wander from their place of residence.
This programme can also be used for anyone who has a brain illness or injury which could cause them to wander.
The system is comprised of either a pendant or key ring which is worn by, or carried by, the person living with Dementia/Autism or other cognitive condition.
The pendant or key ring emits a pulse using a specific frequency. This pulse is detected using a Radio Tracking Unit and a Directional Finding Aerial. As the tracking unit approaches the pendant or key ring, the stronger the pulse will be heard.
WanderSearch, Wairarapa Search & Rescue Inc. does not charge for the tracking devices however a donation is requested to assist with the cost of this programme.
The costs which we incurred are $290 for issuing the devices and $60 for the battery replacements every 6 months.
The benefits of the WanderSearch Tracking System is that it gives peace of mind to the families and helps to reduce the stress on the wanderer.
It also reduces the amount of resources required by LandSar and Police when searching for the missing person.
If you are looking after a person who is living with Dementia/Autism or other cognitive condition and who is at risk of wandering from their place of residence, please contact us. We would welcome the opportunity to demonstrate the equipment.
Have another question?
Do's and Don'ts for wearing the Pendant or carrying the Key Ring
- DO ensure the recipient is wearing the pendant or carrying the key ring at all times.
- DO shower with the pendant, they are water resistant (however it would be prudent to remove the pendant before swimming).
- DO contact us if the recipient loses the pendant or key ring, moves address or no longer requires the use of the pendant or key ring.
- DO report any damage immediately so that we can repair or replace the pendant or key ring.
- DO wear the pendant if the recipient has a pacemaker, but wear it as an anklet. It is recommended that the pendant is at least 15cm away from the pacemaker so as not to interfere with each other.
- DO NOT delay calling the Police (Dial 111) if the person wearing the pendant or carrying the key ring goes missing.
- DO NOT fly with the pendant or key ring while it is turned on (it is a transmitting device and could interfere with the electronics on the plane). Contact us and, if travelling within New Zealand, we can arrange for the pendant to be turned off and on.
- DO NOT wear the pendant or carry the key ring around magnetic fields, for example a Bio-Mag bed. Both are turned on and off with a magnet.
When they go missing...
- Call 111 - Police
- Advise that a person living with Dementia, Autism or a Cognitive Condition has gone missing.
- Confirm that they are wearing a WanderSearch pendant or carrying a key ring.
- Ask for Police Search and Rescue to be sent to your place.
About WanderSearch Wairarapa
Our Guiding Principles
WanderSearch Wairarapa…
- Acknowledges the right of all cognitively impaired individuals in the greater Wairarapa region to be kept safe in their community.
- Endeavours to find a wandering client in the speediest manner possible using the most reliable equipment and methods available to WanderSearch Wairarapa.
- Respects the privacy of its clients and their families and caregivers, and the confidentiality of any information given to WanderSearch Wairarapa.
- Treats all its clients and their support people with dignity and courtesy.
- Ensures its services are available to all clients according to their needs, not their ability to cover the associated costs.
- Maintains its volunteer’s education of tracking systems; communication skills and fosters appreciation for their efforts to support WanderSearch Wairarapa.
- Partners with agencies and organisations in Wairarapa and around New Zealand collaboratively and professionally.
- Manages its funds to maximise its front-line services.
Our Mission
To provide systems to assist those, in the greater Wairarapa region, who are cognitively impaired and have the potential to wander and fail to return to their place of care.
Our Vision
That any cognitively impaired person in the greater Wairarapa region who has the potential to wander is provided with a Wandatrak device and is part of the WanderSearch programme.
Our Partners
Make a Donation
If you would like to make a donation to WanderSearch Wairarapa, you may Direct Credit your donation to our Bank Account:
BNZ Masterton
02-0688-0233055-001
Contact Us
If you are looking after a person who is living with Dementia/Autism or other cognitive condition and who is at risk of wandering from their place of residence, please contact us.
We would welcome the opportunity to demonstrate the equipment.
- 06 370 9322
- sammilligan@xtra.co.nz
