My mother really was the strength in our family. She would sort of keep us in line and I admired her very much .

I am a lucky man. I have had a dream and it has come true, and that is not a thing that happens often to men.

If the going is tough and the pressure is on, If the reserves of strength have been drained and the summit is still not in sight, then the quality to seek in the person is neither great strength nor quickness of hand, but rather a resolute mind firmly set on its purpose that refuses to let its body slack or rest.

I have no desire to live anywhere else but New Zealand. I've had the good fortune to travel widely around the world, but New Zealand is home - and I like to be here. I'm proud to be a New Zealander.

Good planning is important. I've also regarded a sense of humor as one of the most important things on a big expedition. When you're in a difficult or dangerous situation, or when you're depressed about the chances of success, someone who can make you laugh eases the tension.

On the summit of Everest, I had a feeling of great satisfaction to be first there.

I hate being called an 'icon.' I just don't like it. That's all there is to it.