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Hillary Expedition

Hillary Expedition


New Zealand has always been seen as a nation of great adventurers and achievers.

This courageous spirit is epitomised by the feats of one of our most respected Kiwis, Sir Edmund Hillary.


SPARC Hillary Expedition 2008/2009 - Applications have closed.

To read more about the SPARC Hillary Expedition 2008/2009 click here.

Go to the Beehive website to read the Minister's press release.

The SPARC Hillary Expedition vision

The SPARC Hillary Expedition initiative aims to inspire and encourage New Zealanders to take on exciting, world-class physical challenges in the great outdoors.

SPARC envisages that Hillary Expedition adventurers will be role models, encouraging Kiwis to set their sights high, dream 'big dreams' and embark on a lifetime of physical activity.


The inaugural SPARC Hillary Expedition

Member of the Hillary Expedition '04 on a mountain top

The inaugural SPARC Hillary Expedition took place in 2004. A group of five adventurers completed the world's first full traverse of South-East Asia's mighty Mekong River - known by locals as 'Nine Dragons'. They covered more than 3,000 kilometres by trekking, mountain biking and rafting. The group travelled from the high snows of Tibet, all the way to the seas of Vietnam.

In 2006, five groups of inspirational adventurers were granted funding through the Hillary Expedition initiative.

To find out more about the 2006/07 Hillary Expeditions click here.

How the application process works

Every two years, adventurers are invited to submit applications for funding. A panel with representation from SPARC and the outdoor recreation sector shortlists, then selects, the successful proposals.

For the full process on how to apply and application criteria click here.

To download an application form click here.

Updated | 01 Oct 2008.

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