Young girl drowns in Fiordland

A 10-year-old girl has died after being swept down the Marian Creek in Fiordland National Park today.

Emergency services were alerted about 11.40am after the girl, who was with family on holiday from Australia, fell into the fast-flowing creek.

She was located and removed from the water a short time later. CPR was performed and a doctor was flown to the scene.

"Sadly, however, she was unable to be revived," Southland Area Commander Inspector Mike Bowman says.

"This has been a traumatic event for those involved and Police are providing whanau with support.

"We would like to extend our sincere condolences to them."

Marian Creek flows down from Lake Marian and joins the Hollyford River. There's a Marian Creek Falls Track off the Lower Hollyford Road, near to the turn off from SH94 Milford Sound Highway. It is described by the Department of Conservation as a 720-metre easy walking track, which should only take about 20 minutes to walk.

Southland mayor Rob Scott told RNZ it was a huge tragedy for all involved, describing the river where the girl died as "unforgiving".

"It's a pretty harsh environment," he said.

"We're in the middle of summer but it is very cold out there too and it's a strong flowing river.

"It's not a nice calm environment, but it is well frequented by visitors as well and is a beautiful part of the world.

"It's very sad that we've had this kind of outcome."

Bowman thanked those involved in the rescue effort, in particular the members of the public who assisted in locating and providing assistance to the young girl.

Police will be preparing a report for the Coroner, and at this time no further details are available.