Search and Rescue operators remain optimistic they can get to a man stranded on Mount Aspiring

Thick cloud, snow and the risk of an avalanche have combined to prevent their
team from rescuing the Australian soldier, who was due back from his climb on
Monday.

Senior Search and Rescue Officer Geoff Lunt says there's a good chance
they'll find him.

He says there's always hope until they can get to the location and determine
what they find and what's happened.

Geoff Lunt says there's a good chance the man may have managed to bunker down
and provide some shelter for himself.

The weather may allow SAR to drop a tent to the man in a small gap in the
weather this afternoon.