Statement From The Family Of Karl Quaas

Statement From the Family Of Karl Quaass, the Australian Hiker Killed
in New Zealand


Karl had greatly enjoyed walking and tramping in the New Zealand countryside since moving to Dunedin in 2006.

He had just turned 30 and was working at the University of Otago as a professional writer.

Born in Adelaide and a graduate of the University of South Australia and Macquarie University, Karl had a Masters degree in Applied Linguistics. Before moving to New Zealand he travelled extensively and had spent time teaching English in South Korea and Taiwan.

As well as hiking, Karl enjoyed photography, cricket and basketball, and his many friends in Adelaide, New Zealand and other parts of the world loved his sense of humour and his good-natured approach to life.\

At Mount Aspiring National Park at the weekend Karl was with a party of very experienced trampers who were skilled at dealing with emergencies and administering first aid. He had joined the party so he could learn more about tramping and because he appreciated the rugged New Zealand terrain.

After his accident several members of the party hiked out to seek help, while his partner Heidi stayed with him. We have found great solace in the fact she and other members of the group were able to provide this support under such difficult circumstances.

We would like to thank all those in New Zealand who assisted with the retrieval operation and who are continuing to support Heidi. We also thank the Dunedin and South Australian police.

We are deeply shocked at what has occurred. We understand the public interest but ask the media that we now be allowed to remember Karl privately.

ISSUED BY HUGHES PUBLIC RELATIONS:
Please contact
Melissa King on 0448 881 644

SOURCE: Hughes PR