I have a number of heroes I still have warm feelings about. [Derek] Shackleton, for instance, was definitely, and still is, one of my great heroes.

Nobody climbs mountains for scientific reasons. Science is used to raise money for the expeditions, but you really climb for the hell of it.

I think that a good mountaineer is usually a sensible mountaineer.

When you're climbing at high altitudes, life can get pretty miserable.

I still had the same affection for New Zealand as I've always had. Didn't change at all.

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

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