Snow cave saves life of Australian

WELLINGTON: An Australian soldier who dug a snow cave to survive below-freezing conditions for a week on a New Zealand mountain was rescued yesterday.

Rescue authorities said they plucked 29-year-old Terry Harch from Mount Aspiring on the South Island in what they described as a “snatch and grab’’ mission involving three helicopters.

The helicopters also transported four rescuers who had reached Mr Harch a day earlier and two more rescuers who had been on their way to him.

Mr Harch parked his car last Friday to climb the mountain and was expected back by Monday, authorities said. They said a friend reported him missing and Mr Harch also triggered an emergency beacon.

Authorities said the soldier dug a snow cave to survive before rescuers reached him on Thursday. He was suffering from minor frostbite.

New Zealand Search and Rescue Mission Coordinator Mike Roberts said in a statement they were able to drop off rescuers and a paramedic by helicopter on Thursday despite poor conditions and low clouds. He said it was amazing that Mr Harch was able to stand up and wave when the helicopter arrived.

Authorities decided it was too dangerous to attempt a rescue that day, although they were able to provide the soldier with food and hot drinks, as well as a tent.