A Tradition of Exploration, Shared Across Generations
From the Southern Alps to Everest, from the South Pole to the North Pole, the Hillary family has proven that character, not conquest, defines a life of exploration.
About
For nearly a century, members of the Hillary family have ventured into remote and demanding landscapes, from the Southern Alps of Aotearoa New Zealand to the Himalaya, from Antarctica to the Arctic Ocean.
These expeditions have never been undertaken simply for the sake of reaching a destination. They have been shaped by preparation, partnership and a belief that achievement carries with it a responsibility to others. Exploration, in our tradition, is not about conquest. It is about character. It is about working alongside others, respecting the environments that test us and recognising that the true measure of success lies in what endures beyond the summit
Explore the Timeline
Exploration with Purpose
51 1951
Mount
Everest
In 1949, the long-standing climbing route to the summit of Everest was closed by Chinese-controlled Tibet
Explore53 1953
Mount
Everest
In 1949, the long-standing climbing route to the summit of Everest was closed by Chinese-controlled Tibet
Explore80 1980
Mount
Everest
In 1949, the long-standing climbing route to the summit of Everest was closed by Chinese-controlled Tibet
Explore90 1990
Mount
Everest
In 1949, the long-standing climbing route to the summit of Everest was closed by Chinese-controlled Tibet
Explore19 2019
Mount
Everest
In 1949, the long-standing climbing route to the summit of Everest was closed by Chinese-controlled Tibet
ExploreAcross
Continents, In Partnership
From Nepal to Antarctica, from the Arctic Ocean to the great rivers of India, the geography of our expeditions spans continents and cultures. What endu res most strongly are the relationships formed along the way. Sir Edmund Hillary’s partnership with Tenzing Norgay on Everest in 1953 stands as one of the defining examples of collaborative achievement. In the years that followed, his commitment to educati on and community development in the Himalaya demonstrated that exploration must be accompanied by contribution – his l ife’s work became the welfare of the Himalayan peoples of Nepal. That belief continues to guide our approach today. No expedition is under taken in isolation. It depends upon guides, communities, scientists, educators, sponsors and friends whose shared efforts make meaningful journeys possible. Exploration is a collective endeavour.
Trans Antarctic Expedition
The 1953 Everest team
Ocean to Sky (Ganges)
Peter Mt Rimo
Most important expedition
Everest 1953
A Shared Summit
On 29 May 1953, Ed Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reached the summit of Mt Everest in the late morning. The significance of that moment lay not in conquest, but in partnership and going further than any human had ever before. It revealed what disciplined preparation, mutual trust and steady resolve could accomplish under the most demanding conditions.
Mt Ama Dablam
A Summit Across Generations
Ama Dablam holds a distinctive place in the Hillary story. In 1961, Sir Edmund Hillary led the Silver Hut Expedition conducting high altitude physiological research on the flanks of Mt Ama Dablam. Although he served as expedition leader, he was not part of the summit party who made the first ascent. It wasn’t until the third generation that Ama Dablam was climbed in 2019.
Responsibility Beyond the Summit
In the twenty first century, exploration carries new obligations. Fragile ecosystems, climate change and cultural respect must inform every expedition. In the years since Ed Hillary firstclimbed Mount Everest, exploration has evolved and changed, but what remains the same is the passion for adventure that we share, and the values that guide our family.
Ed Hillary always exemplified that achievement without responsibility is hollow. True success strengthens others and safeguards the landscapes and people that inspire us. That is why organisations like the Himalayan Trust and Hillary Outdoors have been caution to the Hillary family-they enable opportunities for others to experience adventure and to live like Ed did.As Tenzing said, “be great and make others great.”
Speeches and Adventures
Experience the Spirit
of Exploration
Pounamu tourism
Explore the pristine beauty of Fiordland National Park with a guided Pounamu tourism adventure.
Learn More
Rail tours
Experience the thrill of a lifetime on our exclusive rail tours through the majestic landscapes of New Zealand.
Learn More
Nepal treks
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas with our expertly guided Nepal treks.
Learn More
Ocean to Sky
Join the Hillary family’s epic journey from Ocean to Sky, exploring the world’s waterways.
Learn More
Continue
the Journey
The story of the Hillary family continues through exploration, education, storytelling, philanthropy and partnership.If you wish to collaborate, to learn more about a particular expedition or to explore opportunities for shared adventure, we welcome you to connect. The journey is ongoing, and there is always another challengeto approach together.
Contact Us
Continue the Adventure
We are available to answer your questions. Reach out to us today and let us help you plan your next great adventure with the Hillary Family.
