An ice axe signed by Sir Edmund Hillary was auctioned last night at a fundraiser for the Minds for Minds Trust which supports research into autism spectrum disorder.
The axe is one of a limited edition series produced in 2003 as part of the 50th anniversary of the conquest ofEverest.
Research scientists Dr Rosamund Hill, left, and Dr Jessie Jacobsen hold the Hillary Ice Axe. Photo / Jason Oxenham
A "chuffed" Sheelagh James, who bought the axe for $5000, said it was for her husband who had fallen in love with it.
The original ice axe used by Sir Ed is displayed at Auckland Museum.
