Celebrity Speakers (NZ) Ltd’s most iconic speaker passes away
It was with great sadness that our greatest living icon passed away in Auckland on January the 11th at 9.00am surrounded
by family. Sir Edmund Hillary died peacefully of a heart attack at the age of 88.
Celebrity Speakers (NZ) Ltd has represented Sir Edmund for over 15 years, and feels privileged to have had the
opportunity to work so closely with New Zealand’s most famous person, and will continue to look after Sir Edmund and
Lady June Hillary's interests.
Louise Ryburn says "We are truly saddened by our loss but celebrate the amazing legacy he has left and the impact he has
had on so many, including the influence he has had on many of our other speakers. He has inspired them to live 'the
dream' and to take on 'that adventure', so they can now carry on the inspiration Sir Edmund had on them to the next
generation".
Sir Edmund's contribution to not only New Zealand and Nepal but the whole world through his accomplishments, good deeds
and causes has left a lasting legacy. As an industry we were extremely lucky to have access to such an amazing person
and be inspired by him, as he was still in demand as a speaker both nationally and internationally until 2006.
Sir Edmund's speeches will be remembered for years to come for the wisdom shared, inspirational anecdotes, his quick wit
and 'to the point' comments. Louise states "You could hear a pin drop when Sir Edmund spoke - he was so revered and
respected that I don't think it truly would have mattered exactly how dynamic a speaker he was, people just wanted a
second of his time and to be in his presence. His stature was also truly powerful and commanding".
The founder of Celebrity Speakers (NZ) Ltd, Debbie Tawse, formed the relationship with Sir Edmund in the early 90's and
was invited to Nepal on two occasions with the Hillary’s which was a great honour for her. After Debbie's passing in
late 2006 Celebrity Speakers (NZ) Ltd were humbled when Sir Edmund and Lady June Hillary continued to be represented by
them under Louise Ryburn's management.
ENDS