I have the challenges sort of already there and as a consequence my companions feel a considerable desire to do this, too, and they feel very put out if they are left in the cold, so there we have it. We have me who has lots of ideas and then we have a very good team who wish - who are persuaded almost - to take part in these challenges.

Becoming a 'Sir' is slightly uncomfortable at first, although it is a considerable honor. It is amazing how quickly you become accustomed to it.

No one remembers who climbed Mount Everest the second time.

I've always hated the danger part of climbing, and it's great to come down again because it's safe.

It's not the moutain we conquer but ourselves.

Waihi Beach. It's a lovely beach, and we're right on the shore and I get a lot of pleasure out of waking up in the morning and hearing the waves roll in.

I get older I get more cantankerous, but June [Hillary] gets a bit more cantankerous, too.