A search and rescue dog and her handler are being recognised for their work in the recovery operation at the landslip at Mount Maunganui.
Six people are missing after the landslide, and a large team of searchers have been working around the clock at the site.
Among the team is Tauranga Land Search and Rescue dog, Kora who and her owner and handler, volunteer Nick Petry.
In a Facebook post the dog rescue group, Rescue, Revive, Rehome – Bay of Plenty applauded their work.
“There are so many heroes working on Mauao right now, giving their time, strength, and hearts to help bring missing people home. While every single person involved deserves recognition, we wanted to take a moment to shine a light on one very special four-legged hero,” it said.
The post said Kora was not only beautiful, but incredibly skilled.
“She has a calm, gentle nature and is friendly with everyone she meets. Like all certified LandSAR search dogs, she is trained in advanced tracking and scent work. She can follow ground scent left behind by a person — whether it’s from hours ago or even days old — and can also locate personal items such as hats, backpacks, or wallets.”
“When she finds something, she signals with a trained response, so her handler knows she has made a discovery.”
New Zealand Land Search and Rescue Dogs is a volunteer organisation providing specialist land search and rescue services to aid the lost, missing and injured.
It supports search and rescue operations in all outdoor environments, working alongside Police and other search and rescue volunteers to help bring loved one’s home.
New Zealand Land Search and Rescue dogs has 16 operational teams across Aotearoa.
The dog teams are all members of a local Land Search and Rescue group and deploy as part of a Police or RCCNZ co-ordinated response.
“We are so grateful for Kora, Nick, and every volunteer working in these difficult conditions. Your dedication and compassion mean more than words can say”, the Facebook post said.
A separate post on Kora’s own social media accounts also acknowledged the tragedy.
“Our thoughts are with the families affected by the landslide at Mt Maunganui and Welcome Bay,” it said.
