The passing of a legend

Bee Keeper, Philanthropist, Antarctic tractor driver, school builder, Ganges jetboat driver, $5 note poser and climber – Sir Edmond Hillary died yesterday after 88 years of life. Known worldwide as the first person to climb Everest, but that was just the tip of the iceberg to this great man.

Revered in New Zealand as the classic kiwi hardman – tough as nails, cut from the land, he headed overseas to the greater ranges and showed folks how it should be done. His ’53 achievement on Everest brought him worldwide fame and notoriety but it’s what he did after that climb is what will really define his legacy. Building schools in Nepal and using his celebrity beyond the climbing world to help those in need.


For all kiwi’s, even adopted ones, he is the ultimate hero. He is the person that we all aspire to be and hold above all as the best of what New Zealand can produce.

Sir Ed will be missed, remembered and admired forever. By me and millions more.

~Scott