NZ expedition conquers Mt Everest

A New Zealand expedition has conquered Mt Everest - the first since the death of Sir Edmund Hillary in January.

The expedition was led by Guy Cotter of Wanaka-based Adventure Consultants and included New Zealand guides Lydia Bradey and Mike Roberts.

Cotter said it was most unusual season ever on Mt Everest.

"We had Chinese Olympic torch carrying climbers on the summit, Nepalese soldiers with guns at Camp 2 stopping climbers from going high on the mountain for fear of interference, political wrangling in Kathmandu and covert surveillance of the climbing teams.

"Then there was discovery by the military of a `Free Tibet' climbing protester who was ousted from base camp. So this year's climbers will have more than just climbing tales to tell when it's all over."

Cotter said he was grateful for the continued co-operation with Nepalese authorities.

New Zealand has had a close association with Nepal and the Sherpas since Sir Edmund became the first climber tyo conquer Everest in May 1953.

"Given the issues this season...we are really happy to have had our group successfully reach the summit." Cotter said.

- NZPA