11 January 2008

Sir Edmund Hillary: Statement from British High Commissioner George Fergusson

"Sir Edmund Hillary was the quintessential hero to people in Britain as well as New Zealand, of my generation and since," said British High Commissioner George Fergusson today.

"The determination and skill which propelled him to fame both in the Himalayas and Antarctica, were perhaps outweighed in the end by the qualities of modesty and integrity, which many around the world see in New Zealanders more generally."

"His later work in Nepal and India, giving back to communities which he had come across as a young man, will form an important part of his memorial."

"I give my condolences to Lady Hillary, Peter and Sarah."

ENDS

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