Stranded cows reportedly rescued following earthquake-triggered landslide

The cows stranded on a grass island in the middle of a massive earthquake-triggered landslide have reportedly been rescued.

And if not, it could be former All Black captain Richie McCaw to the rescue.

The two adult cattle and a calf of cows were spotted from the air yesterday and reports of their plight have gone around the world.

Newshub reported a trench had been dug to rescue the cows.

Federated Farmers spokeswoman Katie Milne was not aware of the rescue.

But she said a high-profile helicopter pilot, whom she indicated was McCaw, who has been helping following the quakes, had offered to drop hay and water to the stranded trio.