Snow blocks viewing of Pluto, traps pigs

The snow that hit the country yesterday ruined the star-gazing plans of astronomers who had gathered from around the world to view a rare event.

The storm also left hundreds of pigs trapped when snow brought a roof down on their heads.

The astronomers had gathered at the University of Canterbury observatory at Mt John in the South Island to watch a rare planetary sight - the occultation, similar to an eclipse, of Pluto.

But with the snow cutting power to Tekapo, the observatory was unable to open its dome to view the night sky or use its computer data-gathering equipment.

Tekapo was billed internationally as the best place in the world to watch as the planet Pluto passed in front of a distant star, casting a shadow in a line over the Mt John observatory at 4.23am today.

But the 12 people, including six visiting astronomers, were trapped by snow on the 300m mountain.

While they sat unable to open the dome or use any monitoring equipment, the skies cleared offering potentially a perfect view of the event.

Meanwhile, a rescue effort was under way today in South Canterbury to save hundreds of trapped pigs.

Several buildings at a piggery near Rangitata collapsed yesterday, trapping as many as 2000 animals beneath.

Ashburton Deputy Mayor John Leadley said this morning people were being rallied to help out.

Animals were being taken out of the debris and put into temporary tarpaulin shelters.

He said local firms were helping out with equipment and facilities to house the surviving animals.

The aftermath of the snowstorm continued to affect the South Island today, making roads treacherous and leaving thousands without power and phone lines.

- NZPA, NEWSTALK ZB