Professional mountaineer and valued Save the Children supporter Paul Scaife was tragically killed by an avalanche on Mt Tasman on 31 December 2003.

At the time of the tragedy, which also claimed the lives of three others, Paul was set to continue a fundraising quest to climb 50 of the South Island’s major mountain peaks in his 50th year. Paul had topped 38 peaks between mid-October and Christmas and was planning to complete the 50@50 Mountain Challenge by the end of January.

Save the Children President Martin Hawes, a close friend and colleague of Paul’s, had intended to accompany Paul on the 50-peak quest but was forced to pull out at an early stage due to illness. He takes solace from the fact that Paul died doing something he loved.

“Paul was a great climber and a great guide,” said Martin. “He was highly motivated by the Save the Children connection.”

Paul’s fundraising efforts, complemented by corporate sponsors Kathmandu and TelstraClear, contributed directly to Save the Children’s Annual Appeal and were deeply appreciated.