The state funeral of Sir Edmund Hillary will be beamed live to Scott Base in Antarctica next week, in a poignant tribute to the man who made his final journey there almost exactly a year ago.
Dignitaries from around the world are making special arrangements to be atSir Ed's funeral in Auckland, with US Ambassador to New Zealand Bill McCormick cutting short a trip home to attend. Mr McCormick was on Sir Ed's final trip to Antarctica last year.
TVNZ is finalising arrangements to broadcast the state funeral live next Tuesday and spokeswoman Megan Richards said the commercial-free coverage was likely to be fronted by Sir Ed's friend Mark Sainsbury and news presenter Simon Dallow.
They will provide commentary before and after the service, and the programme will also be streamed live on the network's website.
As many as 15 camera positions are expected to be required.
TVNZ's coverage will begin at 6.30am on One with a special edition of Breakfast to lead into the state funeral.
At 9am the network will replay All Black Anton Oliver's Intrepid Journey to Nepal, before full coverage of the state funeral begins at 10am.
Meanwhile, moves are afoot in Nepal to rename Lukla airport near Mt Everest Tenzing-Hillary airport after Sir Edmund and his climbing companion Tenzing Norgay.
DONATIONS
* Anyone wanting to donate to the Himalayan Trust can do so at any BNZ branch.
* For people wanting to donate in New Zealand, the account number is: 02 0256 0031716 01.
* For overseas donations, use the account number: 02 0256 0031716 03.
* For more information about the work of the trust, visit: www.himalayan-trust.org.np
