Hopes Australian Army Lieutenant Stuck On Kiwi Mountain Will Be Rescued Today

An Australian man trapped on a New Zealand mountain by severe weather since last week has been found alive in what's been described as an extraordinary tale of survival.

There were grave fears for the 29-year-old Lieutenant Terry Harch, who failed to return on Monday from a solo climb of Mount Aspiring in the South Island.

But New Zealand crews say he's in good spirits and has only mild frostbite. 

Neville Blakemore, senior search and rescue officer at Rescue Coordination Centre,New Zealand  - said they located him via a rescue beacon on Tuesday at noon. 

Specialist rescuers found the man via helicopter, who was waist deep in snow at the time. 

The rescuers and a paramedic spent the night with Lt. Harch, and are keeping him warm and fed until the harsh weather breaks. 

Mr Blakemore said the team was hopeful they would be able to bring him out today. 

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