Two New Zealand climbers stuck on Solomon Islands peak as storms rage

Two New Zealand adventurers, Keanu Isaksson and Luca Zylstra, have been confined to a ravine on Mount Popomanaseu, the Solomon Islands' tallest mountain, for five days after severe rain made the descent route impassable. The climbers, who had reached the summit with help from local tribal guides, became isolated when the guides could not accompany them back due to tribal boundaries. Denise Holl, the mother of Isaksson, receives occasional signals from their emergency beacon and says they have provisions to last up to six days if rationed.

Rescue attempts have been hampered by falling rocks, rising rivers, and continuous downpours, preventing both foot teams and a helicopter from reaching them. Gary Hubbard of Helicopter Support reported that the aircraft could only ascend to about 4,000 feet before turning back, while New Zealand police are coordinating assistance. The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular support to the families, though details remain limited.