A couple's been rescued from Mount Robert Ridge near Nelson after spending hours in the cold

The pair were rescued from the area last night after failing to make it to a nearby hut due to insufficient gear.

However they were able to get cell phone coverage on the hill and called police at 8:30

They were later rescued by the Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter at around midnight.

Sergeant Steve Savage says they were fortunate and he encourages anyone going into alpine environments to have appropriate gear.