Mail by Runner 13: Sarah Hillary Remembers a Yak for Christmas

Tashi Delek!

Today’s Mail by Runner is a long one but we know it is something you will want to see! Read on for an unforgettable childhood story from Sir Ed’s daughter, Sarah Hillary as she travelled with her family and Max Pearl's family in 1966

There was something wonderful released in all of us on those treks through the mountains of Nepal - as children we revelled in the fresh air, our skins darkened from the sun and dirt, and the laughter and warmth of the local Sherpa people was infectious. We always felt sad when we had to say goodbye and return to our normal lives.

Image: Sarah Hillary, Belinda Hillary and Sue Pearl in the Khumbu in 1966.

I first visited the Everest area with my family in 1966. This was a time when a man dressed up as Father Christmas drew a crowd, even if he hadn’t been riding a yak. A time when there were no cell phones or internet so that you became emersed in the local culture, and the only post came thanks to the mail runner.

Things were tough for the mountain people, but a relatively small change by the Himalayan Trust could bring about a huge and positive outcome, such as vaccines for smallpox, Iodine injections for goitre, and the building of the Khunde Hospital which was the reason for our visit.

Image: The Hillary and Pearl families below Tengboche Monastery.

As Max handed out Christmas gifts from the back of the yak, we responded to the performances by the two hundred or so children of the Khunde and Khumjung villages with waiata and poi. Above us, as we played games, were the towering mountains and a clear blue sky.

Image: Max Pearl, dressed as Santa giving out gifts in Khunde Village.

When I look back, I realise how incredibly privileged we were to be so welcomed by the community and taken into their hearts. They certainly found a place in mine.

Words by Sarah Hillary

Photos courtesy of the Auckland Museum