Himalayan Trust Speaker Evening

In August 2026, Holly was invited to speak at the Himalayan Trust Speaker Evening in Ōtautahi Christchurch, joining an exceptional line-up of some of New Zealand's most respected mountaineers and Himalayan climbers.

Hosted by Alexander Hillary, the evening featured presentations from John McKinnon on the first ascent of Thamserku, Phurenje Sherpa on Everest and two decades guiding on Aoraki / Mount Cook, Alastair McDowell on his Makalu expedition, and Holly sharing her own journey towards becoming the first wāhine Māori to summit Mount Everest.

Founded by Sir Edmund Hillary in 1960, the Himalayan Trust has spent more than six decades supporting communities in Nepal through the construction of schools, hospitals, and health services while maintaining its deep connection to the Himalaya.

Being invited to speak at this event was an honour and an important milestone in Holly's Everest journey, providing an opportunity to share her story alongside some of New Zealand's most accomplished climbers and to inspire others to pursue ambitious goals with courage and purpose.