More than Just a Mountaineer: Sir Edmund Hillary

18 January 2008

Sir Edmund was one of the greatest role models for international development, according to Rae Julian, Executive Director of the Council for International Development.

Sir Edmund was one of the greatest role models for international development, according to Rae Julian, Executive Director of the Council for International Development. 

"Many people would have taken their hero status for granted after an achievement such as his on Mount Everest. He used his fame to make a difference for the Sherpa people who had helped him to achieve it, the Nepalese, who are among the poorest people in the world. Through setting up the Himalayan Trust he was able to raise millions of dollars from people in New Zealand and his contacts internationally."

"It was not enough for him, however, just to stay at home and fundraise. For as long as he was able, he returned to the Himalayan villages, working with the builders to ensure that the projected schools and hospitals became a reality. His partnership with the Sherpa people has endured to this day".

"CID adds its voice to all of the New Zealanders who are mourning the death of this great man. He may not still be around but his legacy will remain".

Contact:  Rae Julian 496 9615 (Wk) 021 708 288  or 499 8975 (Home)