Man and dog winched to safety by chopper in Wellington

A 70-year-old man and his dog Jess have been winched to safety by helicopter, after the man activated his personal locator beacon in the Tararuas.

The pair were found on Tuesday night off the Waiotauru River Track.

The tramper was assessed by a paramedic before being winched on board.

Then a speciality harness was used to lift Jess, a heading dog, to safety.

Jess was flown to Life Flight's Rescue base where she enjoyed sausages and a bowl of water before being reunited with her family.
Jess was flown to Life Flight's Rescue base where she enjoyed sausages and a bowl of water before being reunited with her family. Photo credit: Life Flight Wellington
Jess was trembling as she was lifted to safety, and was reluctant to get on board the chopper.
Jess was trembling as she was lifted to safety, and was reluctant to get on board the chopper. Photo credit: Life Flight Wellington
Jess is a "lovely and very well behaved dog", according to rescue services.
Jess is a "lovely and very well behaved dog", according to rescue services. Photo credit: Life Flight Wellington

The patient was transported to Wellington Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

Jess was flown to Life Flight's Rescue base at Wellington airport, where she enjoyed sausages and a bowl of water before being reunited with her family.

Newshub.