Medals of Sir Edmund Hillary on display

NEWS RELEASE
Date 22 September 2009
Time 10.00am

Medals of Sir Edmund Hillary on display

The Reserve Bank Museum is hosting an exhibition of the orders, decorations and medals of the late Sir Edmund Hillary, KG, ONZ, KBE.

The exhibition reflects a lifetime of extraordinary achievements that included the first ascent of Mount Everest, the first overland drive to the South Pole, and many projects to benefit the people of the Himalayas.

Acting Governor Grant Spencer said the Reserve Bank Museum was honoured to host the temporary exhibition. "The loan of the medals to the Museum extends the special relationship the Bank has had with Sir Edmund and his family since 1992, when his portrait appeared on the five dollar note."

At the time Sir Edmund was the only living person, other than the Queen, to appear on circulating currency. A large portrait window featuring the five dollar note is one of the main features of the Reserve Bank Museum.

Sir Edmund's achievements and work made him a highly respected and well known name in New Zealand and internationally. He was made High Commissioner to India in 1984, three years later appointed to the Order of New Zealand, and in 1995 was made a Knight of the Garter.

Medals and awards on temporary display include the Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, the Letters Patent for his personal Coat of Arms, the Order of the Gurkha Right Arm, and a range of medals and awards from such diverse organisations as the American Geographical Society, the French Geographical Society, and many governments around the world.

The exhibition is open to the public on Tuesday 22 September.

The Museum is open to the public weekdays 9.30am-4.00 pm, except for special events. Entry is free. The Reserve Bank Museum is located in the Reserve Bank Building, 2 The Terrace, Wellington.

See the factsheet on Sir Edmund Hillary and his achievements

http://www.rbnz.govt.nz/about/museum/3754281.pdf

ENDS