Adventure, Legacy and Creating Change in Nepal

Hosted by Velocity Financial, Kaitiaki Foundation and Caveo

20 August 2026 | 6.00pm – 7.30pm

Velocity Financial, 38 Vivian Street, Wellington

Join us for a special fundraising event in support of the Himalayan Trust, featuring adventurer, conservationist and Himalayan Trust General Manager Alexander Hillary.

Book your tickets here

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Alexander Hillary

Alexander Hillary is General Manager of the Himalayan Trust, the organisation his grandfather Sir Edmund Hillary founded in 1961 to support the people of the Khumbu region of Nepal. His work spans fundraising and partnerships in New Zealand and close collaboration with the Trust's team in Nepal, delivering projects across education, healthcare, the environment and more. He is a third-generation steward of an organisation still guided by the principles Ed set out; power in partnership, adventure by nature, and a long-term commitment to change in the Everest region. Alex is a mountaineer having climbed several Himalayan peaks and has been on expeditions to Antarctica, Patagonia, Caucasus’, and New Zealand. 

This inspiring evening will explore adventure, purpose, leadership and the enduring relationship between New Zealand and Nepal.

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What You'll Hear

Living in the Light of a Legacy

Alexander Hillary will share personal reflections on growing up as Sir Edmund Hillary's grandson, the opportunities and responsibilities that come with that legacy, and what he has learned through his own adventures and experiences around the world.

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How it all began

Ed Hillary turned a simple request into a lifetime of work, connection and impact. His interest in mountaineering and climbing turned into much more as he took on school, hospital and bridge projects to support rural communities near Mt Everest. Although overshadowed by his accomplishments on Everest, this work was the legacy he was most proud of.

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Nepal Today

Drawing on his firsthand experience, Alex will provide insight into modern Nepal, the opportunities and challenges facing mountain communities, and how tourism, education, infrastructure and local enterprise are helping shape the country's future.

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The Work of Himalayan Trust

Learn how Himalayan Trust continues to support schools, healthcare, clean water initiatives and community-led development projects throughout the Everest region and beyond. The Trust's work remains focused on creating sustainable, long-term change through partnership with local communities.

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Funding Impact in a Changing World

Alex will also share perspectives on leading and funding a charitable organisation in today's environment, offering valuable insights for business leaders, philanthropists, board members and those working within the impact sector.

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A Story of Friendship Across Cultures

Guest speaker Patricia Sexton will share the heartwarming story of her young children's friendship with a boy living in rural Nepal. What began as a pen-pal connection grew into an unforgettable face-to-face meeting, providing a powerful reminder that curiosity, kindness and connection can transcend language, geography and culture.

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Who Should Attend?

This event will appeal to:

• Business owners and community leaders

• Not-for-profit and charitable organisations

• Board members and governance professionals

• Philanthropists and social impact advocates

• Outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, mountain bikers and adventurers

• Supporters of Himalayan Trust

• Duke of Edinburgh Award participants and leaders

• Anyone interested in Sir Edmund Hillary's legacy, Nepal or creating positive change in the world

Whether you're passionate about adventure, leadership, international development or simply hearing remarkable stories, this promises to be a memorable evening.

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Why we are bringing this event to our community

At Velocity Group, we believe thriving communities are built through strong leadership, meaningful relationships and creating opportunities for others to succeed. Whether we're helping people build financial confidence through Velocity Financial, supporting resilience through Caveo, or backing positive social impact through Kaitiaki Foundation, we share a commitment to helping people and communities flourish. That's why we're proud to bring together our clients, partners and wider community for this special fundraising event supporting Himalayan Trust.

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Event Details

Date: Thursday 20 August 2026

Venue: Velocity Financial, 38 Vivian Street, Wellington

Programme

• 6.00pm – Doors open, drinks and nibbles

• 6.30pm – Speaker presentations

• 7.15pm – Audience Q&A

• 7.30pm – Formal programme concludes

• 7.30pm onwards – Networking

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Tickets

$35 per person

All ticket proceeds will be donated directly to Himalayan Trust to support its ongoing work in Nepal.

Tickets are strictly limited and available via Humanitix.

Early booking is recommended.

Book your tickets here.

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Support the Trust

In addition to ticket sales, attendees will have the opportunity to make an additional contribution through an on-site donation portal, with all funds going directly to Himalayan Trust.

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About Himalayan Trust

Founded by Sir Edmund Hillary and Louise Hillary in the 1960s, Himalayan Trust has supported communities in Nepal for more than six decades. The Trust works alongside local partners to improve access to education, healthcare, clean water and sustainable livelihoods while helping communities build a better future for generations to come.

Find out more about Himalayan Trust

https://himalayantrust.org/

Find out more about Alex on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/alexhillary/

Join us for an evening of adventure, connection and impact.

Book your tickets here

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