An under-prepared family is lucky to be alive after becoming lost in freezing conditions on Mt Taranaki, prompting a preparation reminder from police to those heading out this long weekend.

Police received a call about 6.30pm reporting that a man and two children were overdue returning from the Pouakai Range, according to SAR Incident Controller, Detective Gerhard Jacoabs.

Police Search and Rescue were called in for the search, along with LandSAR and Department of Conservations volunteers.

Jacobs said the man and two children were unfamiliar with the Pouakai Range, unprepared for the cold, and had not told anyone they'd changed their plans.

"The man had just 5 per cent battery on his phone as emergency services were attempting to gain their location by it via GPS."

Volunteers walked four hours through near-freezing temperatures and 50kmh winds to escort the family to safety by midnight.

But the outcome could have been very different, said Jacobs.

"(When) walking in the outdoors, particularly on the unforgiving Mt Taranaki, preparation is key. Know your limits."

He said those heading outdoors this long weekend should plan properly, carry two forms of communication, and be ready to stay out overnight if needed.