Trampers are being warned to take to the Tararua Ranges with care.

Police have revealed Pavel Pazniak and Michael Stepura, whose bodies were found in the Ranges last Monday, died of hypothermia.

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Mountain Safety Council chief executive Mike Daisley said it's not surprising given the treacherous nature of the Ranges as they're particularly exposed to high winds and the only shelter is down low.

Hypothermia can creep up on you easily, said Mr Daisley, and it's not just something brought on by cold weather.

A lot of smaller things can accumulate and bring hypothermia on, he said.

"Maybe the trip is taking longer so you're more exposed to the wind than you expected. Got a bit hotter than expected so you work up a bit more sweat. And you encounter a bit of light rain. That sequence can lead to hypothermia."