A commercial helicopter picked up two people and a dog after they were stranded by floodwaters near the Manuherikia River. Photo: Getty Images

Two individuals and a canine were rescued from St Bathans in Central Otago this evening after their vehicle was swept away by a river.

They were left stranded, but a commercial helicopter came to their rescue and transported them to Queenstown, as confirmed by a Maritime NZ representative.

Authorities were alerted around 5pm that the group was trapped by rising waters near the Manuherikia River.

Fortunately, everyone involved is now safe and in good health, according to the police.

The Rescue Co-ordination Centre of Maritime NZ emphasized that crossing the river on foot was dangerous, underscoring the importance of being prepared and having a means of seeking assistance.

The duo activated the SOS feature on their satellite emergency device.

A helicopter airlifted them just before 6pm, and they reached Queenstown approximately an hour later.