Search & Rescue NZ

The public can often view rescuers as heroes who are just doing a job. But years of attending rescues, accidents, or the tragic retrieval of bodies, can have a devasting effect on both volunteers or emergency service workers. Content warning: this series contains graphic descriptions of rescues and fatalities, as well as some strong language. If unsettling personal stories affect you, please take care while listening.Thanks to the LandSAR volunteers who shared their stories.Archive recordings supplied thanks to Ngā Tāonga Sound and VisionGo to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

Experienced canyoners Dave Vass and Annette Phillips were out doing the ultimate outdoor activity when adventure turned into accident in a little explored canyon, leaving them with difficult decisions to make. Content warning: this series contains graphic descriptions of rescues and fatalities, as well as some strong language. If unsettling personal stories affect you, please take care while listening.Thanks to the LandSAR volunteers who shared their stories.Archive recordings supplied thanks to Ngā Tāonga Sound and VisionGo to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

The increase of social media has seen many walkers, often overseas visitors, attracted to places beyond their experience or ability. Mount Brewster in Mount Aspiring National Park now has up to ten rescues a year as hundreds flock there to take a selfie, but sometimes even this poses a risk. Thanks to the LandSAR volunteers who shared their stories.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

After five days trapped in the "Middle Peak Hotel" crevasse on the summit ridge of Aoraki Mount Cook, climbers Phil Doole and Mark Inglis were in big trouble – both having frostbite to their feet. By day 15 fears were held for their lives, until a short break in the weather and the heroic efforts of pilot Ron Small and rescuer Don Bogie. Thanks to the LandSAR volunteers who shared their stories.Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details

In November 1982, two climbers Phil Doole and Mark Inglis were trapped on the summit ridge of Aoraki Mount Cook at over 3000 metres. Taking shelter in a sparse crevasse near the summit, storms and high winds thwarted any rescue attempts when the pair were declared missing after five days. Content warning: this series contains graphic descriptions of rescues and fatalities, as well as some strong language. If unsettling personal stories affect you, please take care while listening.Thanks to the LandSAR volunteers who shared their stories.Archive recordings supplied thanks to Ngā Tāonga Sound and VisionGo to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details