Statement from family of the climber who died in Fiordland this weekend

Statement released by NZ Police on behalf of the family of Sabre Peak climber Connor Scott McKenzie:

"Connor Scott McKenzie was a well centred, kind man, loved by all.

His dad recently said, "If wealth was measured in the number and quality of people you have as friends, then my son was rich."

Born in Christchurch to Jen, his Canadian mum and Paul, his New Zealand dad, meant he had a large extended family - an ocean apart - that loved him dearly.

Connor's parents taught at, and ran international schools all over the world, living with Connor and his sister Abby on five continents.

First Christchurch then to Canada, Kuwait then Serbia, Burkina Faso, Fukuoka and on to Melbourne.

Connor received a scholarship to university but decided to follow his passions.

He had just finished his carpentry apprenticeship in Melbourne and was doing up a van with the dream of working from town to town as he travelled Australia.

Another love was climbing.

At a young age he had developed a passion for going where most wouldn't, to see things that most hadn't.

After completing various climbing courses, he taught other climbers rope safety and improved his skill during challenging climbs.

Although it’s devastating for all Connor's family and friends, there is some solace in that he lived life to its fullest and died doing something he loved.

The family would like to thank the New Zealand Police especially their family liaison officer who provided the family with a level of support both thoughtful and thorough.

The family would also like to thank the brave Police Search and Rescue, Wakatipu Alpine

Cliff Rescue team, the Rescue Co-ordination Centre New Zealand, Heliworks and Southern Lakes Helicopters for what had been an extremely difficult recovery.

The attached photo is the last one we received from Connor.

Regards,

Grant McKenzie (Connor's uncle)."