Hiker's dog lost in forest rescued by helicopter after strangers fund search
abcnews.com • • general
Key Points:
- A hiker who fell 55 meters at a New Zealand waterfall was rescued but her border collie, Molly, went missing during the evacuation.
- Helicopter pilot Matt Newton led a renewed search for Molly, funded by over NZ$11,000 raised from strangers to cover flying hours and advanced thermal imaging equipment.
- After multiple search attempts, Molly was located near the original accident site, appearing bedraggled but in surprisingly good condition, likely surviving by hunting feral animals.
- The rescue team used a second dog and volunteers to coax Molly into safety, leading to a successful recovery and a tearful reunion with her injured owner.
- The reunion is expected to aid the hiker’s emotional and physical healing following her fall.
