Dramatic Extraction Saves Stranded Climbers After Three Day Alpine Ordeal

Two climbers were rescued via longline near Sabre Peak after surviving three nights in severe weather with no food and saturated gear in Fiordland National Park.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 11, 2026, 4:09 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

A Race Against Deteriorating Conditions

The emergency began on Wednesday evening when a personal locator beacon (PLB) signal was first detected in the rugged backcountry of the South Island. Despite the early warning, rescue efforts were repeatedly thwarted by a relentless storm front moving through the region. Rescuers made two unsuccessful attempts to reach the location before a break in the weather finally appeared on Friday at dawn. By the time the helicopter crew arrived, the climbers had exhausted their food supplies and were struggling against hypothermia in saturated sleeping bags and a small two person bivouac.

Precision Extraction in Extreme Terrain

At approximately 7:00 am on Friday, the Southern Lakes Helicopter crew utilized a 100 foot longline technique to lift the climbers directly from the mountain face. This specialized maneuver was necessary due to the sheer incline of the terrain, which prevented a traditional landing. Rescue co-ordinator Dougall Henderson described the survival of the pair as remarkable, noting that their gear had become completely compromised by moisture during their prolonged exposure. Following the extraction, the individuals received immediate medical attention from an onboard doctor before being transported to Te Anau.

Strategic Survival Decisions

Authorities have praised the climbers for their professional approach to the emergency, which significantly aided in their survival. Despite the dire circumstances, the pair adhered to critical safety protocols by activating their beacon early and remaining in a fixed position once the weather became impassable. Furthermore, they maintained communication with the outside world via satellite text messaging—including messages sent to family members—which provided rescuers with vital updates on their condition and local visibility throughout the three day wait.