Lost Dog Rescued by Helicopter in New Zealand

A border collie named Molly has been reunited with her owner after a week-long search in the wild West Coast region of New Zealand’s South Island. The dramatic rescue involved a helicopter, thermal imaging, and a significant fundraising effort from strangers.

Initial Rescue and Dog's Disappearance

On March 24th, an emergency rescue helicopter evacuated a hiker who had fallen 180 feet at a waterfall. Due to the challenging conditions, rescuers were unfortunately unable to locate the hiker’s dog, Molly, during the initial operation. The woman sustained bruises and lacerations from the fall.

Community Rallies to Fund Search

Matt Newton, owner-operator of Precision Helicopters New Zealand, initiated the search for Molly. After initial unsuccessful attempts, Newton and his family launched a fundraiser to cover additional flying hours and specialized search equipment.

Fundraising Success

The public responded generously, donating over 11,000 New Zealand dollars to the cause. This funding allowed for three additional hours of helicopter time equipped with thermal imaging technology.

Successful Rescue Operation

On Tuesday, Newton, accompanied by a veterinary nurse, volunteer searchers, and a search dog named Bingo, resumed the search. Within an hour, they located Molly using thermal imaging. The helicopter landed, allowing a volunteer to approach Molly with Bingo to help secure her.

Newton believes Molly survived by foraging for feral animals during her time in the wilderness. He described her as being in “surprisingly good condition” and cooperative during the rescue.

Reunion and Gratitude

Hours after her rescue, Molly was joyfully reunited with her owner, who was still recovering from her injuries. Newton believes the reunion will significantly aid her owner’s recovery.

Precision Helicopters New Zealand expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming public support on social media, stating that the rescue wouldn’t have been possible without the collective effort. A video of the rescue was also shared on Facebook.

This rescue follows another recent dramatic canine rescue in the United States, where police used a helicopter to save a goldendoodle struggling in the Seneca River near Syracuse, New York.