Ben Dare is one of three Queenstown-based climbers who completed the first ascent of Mt Aspiring's (3033m) northwest face earlier this month.
Pictured atop the mountain are, Mr Dare (right), Steve Skelton (left) and Danny Murphy, who scaled the almost vertical rock face in just over six hours.
Last year Mr Dare (32) was awarded a Royal Humane Society medal for bravery after saving the life of injured climbing partner Scott Blackford-Scheelein Nepal in April 2013.
What was the best birthday present you ever received, and why?
My first mountain bike, when I was about 9 or 10. My older brother and his friends had had bikes for a while and I really wanted one.
If you were going to an island and could only take three things, what would they be and why?
A fishing rod to keep me occupied and for food, a radio for something to listen to and a case of whisky to keep me sane and entertained.
What's something only your family knows about you?
Growing up, I was terrified of heights. As I began climbing, the fear gradually eased to thepoint where I'm not afraid of heights at all now.
What is your message?
Live life to the fullest and make the most of every day. You never know when it is going to end.
You are a new addition to the crayon box. What colour are you, and why?
Red. Because red goes faster.
