Saying farewell to Sir Edmund Hillary

From City Scene, published on 27 January, 2008

Paying their respects: Aucklanders gather in the Auckland Domain to watch the state funeral of Sir Edmund Hillary

Sir Edmund Hillary (left) with Mayor Hon. John Banks in 2003 when Sir Edmund was made a distinguished citizen of Auckland city

Distinguished citizen: Sir Edmund Hillary (left) with Mayor Hon. John Banks in 2003 when Sir Edmund was made a distinguished citizen of Auckland city

Thousands of Aucklanders watched the broadcast of Sir Edmund Hillary's state funeral service on large screens at the Auckland Domain and the Viaduct Harbour last Tuesday. The screens, volunteer support and traffic management were among the services co-ordinated by Auckland City Council so members of the public could participate in this momentous and historic occasion. "Sir Edmund Hillary was a resident of this city and a greatly admired man," the Mayor of Auckland city, Hon. John Banks said. "It was an honour to provide this assistance so that New Zealanders could pay their respects and, as a community, acknowledge Sir Edmund Hillary's outstanding life," Mr Banks said.

Distinguished citizen

Sir Edmund Hillary with Mayor Hon. John Banks in 2003 when Sir Edmund was made a distinguished citizen of Auckland city. Sir Edmund was the first recipient of the award in recognition of the outstanding contribution he made to Auckland and New Zealand. "Sir Edmund was New Zealand's most distinguished citizen," Mr Banks said. "He was a truly inspiring role model and his contribution to New Zealand will long be remembered," Mr Banks concluded.