Hiker's dog lost in a wild New Zealand forest is rescued by helicopter after strangers fund search
NBC News • • world
Key Points:
- A hiker who fell from a 180-foot waterfall on New Zealand’s South Island was rescued but had to be evacuated without her missing border collie, Molly.
- Helicopter pilot Matt Newton, determined to find Molly, launched multiple searches and a fundraiser that raised over NZ$11,000 to fund advanced search efforts using thermal imaging.
- Molly was found a week later, bedraggled but in surprisingly good condition, near the spot where her owner had fallen, and was safely rescued with the help of a rescue dog and volunteers.
- The emotional reunion between the injured hiker and Molly is expected to aid the woman’s healing process, highlighting the strong bond between pet and owner.
