May 27, 2023
70th Everest Day celebration was a significant event for this year, with 350 participants from diverse backgrounds, including Everest summiteers & mountaineer enthusiasts, media persons, politicians, community leaders, Nepal government representatives, international delegates, and members of the Nepali community in New Zealand.
The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Mr Christopher Luxon, Leader of the Opposition, as a Chief Guest and Mr Uddhav Adhikary, President of NRNA NZ, who inaugurated the ceremony with the unveiling of the impressive Everest 3D Model.
Our honoured guests, including National MPs Melissa Lee and Simeon Brown, District Commander Ms Karyn Malthus, and NRNA Vice President Mr Dharmaraj Adhikari, graced the occasion with their presence. A video message from Everest Summiteer Mr Peter Hillary and Honorable Michael Wood, Transport Minister, was also played during the event. A message from our Patron, Sir Ray Avery, was read by MC, Ms Alina Rawal Bista.
President Mr Uddhav Adhikary welcomed guests with a welcome speech. Dr Santosh Bhandari, the 70th Everest Day Coordinator, flawlessly oversaw the event’s coordination and organization, while Mr Dinesh Khadka, Honorary Consul of Nepal to New Zealand, delivered a valuable address.
Organisor: NRNA NZ
Affiliate partners
Embassy of Nepal Canberra, Australia & Honorary Consul of Nepal to New Zealand
Felicitation to Mr Ang Kaji Sherpa
A touching moment was the presentation of a letter of appreciation to Everest summiteer Mr Ang Kaji Sherpa, a cherished member of the Nepali community in NZ, by our Chief Guest. In return, Mr Luxon received a token of appreciation from Dr Santosh Bhandari, the event’s Coordinator.
Auction of $5 note signed by Sir Ed
The day was further enhanced by a fund-raising auction of a $5 note signed by Sir Edmund Hillary, won by Nima Sherpa for NZ $2100. The raised amount will contribute to the Himalayan Trust, upholding Sir Edmund Hillary’s philanthropic legacy.
Mesmerizing Sherpa dances, cultural performances, and delectable Nepali cuisine added to the richness of our celebration, creating unforgettable memories for all.
Mount Everest 3D Model
The unveiling of the impressive Everest 3D Model was the major attraction of the event. The 3D model includes the historic first ascent route to the summit of Everest by Sir Ed and Tenzing. As we celebrate the 70th Everest Day, the Everest 3D model is a captivating centrepiece, honouring the historic achievement. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to those who brought this remarkable masterpiece to life, making our commemoration even more extraordinary. Let the Everest 3D model inspire us to reach new heights and foster unity within our Nepali community in New Zealand. Reflecting the First Ascent Route, the Everest 3D Model is a concept by Suman Dhungel, Artist Biljana Snjgota, sponsored by New Zealand Nepal Society.
Letter to PM of New Zealand
On the auspicious occasion of the 70th Everest Day, a joint effort by various Nepali community organizations culminated in the submission of a letter to the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Rt Hon Chris Hipkins, requesting the recognition of Everest Day as a special day in the Government calendar. This endeavour signifies our strong bond with the land of the long white cloud and reflects the shared values of courage, resilience, and adventure that the Nepali and Kiwi cultures hold dear. As we commemorate the 70th Everest Day, we believe this recognition will further nurture the cultural ties between our two nations and honour the remarkable achievements of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa.
