New Zealander G.O.A.T.: 11 Greatest Kiwis of All Time

Sir Edmund Hillary (1919-2008) - The first person, along with Tenzing Norgay, to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1953. He was a legendary mountaineer and philanthropist.

Kate Sheppard (1847-1934) - A pioneering suffragette who played a pivotal role in securing women's right to vote in New Zealand in 1893, making it the first self-governing country to grant women suffrage.

Ernest Rutherford (1871-1937) - A renowned physicist known as the "father of nuclear physics" for his groundbreaking work on atomic structure and radioactivity.

Sir Peter Jackson - A highly successful filmmaker best known for directing the "Lord of the Rings" film trilogy, which garnered critical acclaim and commercial success.

Dame Whina Cooper (1895-1994) - A respected Maori leader and activist who played a crucial role in advancing Maori land rights and cultural preservation.

Sir Apirana Ngata (1874-1950) - A prominent Maori politician, lawyer, and scholar who made significant contributions to the revival of Maori culture and language.

Sir Richard Hadlee - One of cricket's all-time great fast bowlers, he held numerous records and played a vital role in New Zealand's cricket history.

Dame Kiri Te Kanawa - A world-renowned operatic soprano who achieved international acclaim for her singing talent and contribution to the arts.

Sir Peter Snell - A middle-distance runner who won three Olympic gold medals and set multiple world records in the 1960s.

Sir George Grey (1812-1898) - A prominent colonial governor and politician who played a crucial role in shaping New Zealand's early history and institutions.

Sir Ernest Shackleton (1874-1922) - Although born in Ireland, Shackleton's Antarctic expeditions from New Zealand have left an indelible mark on the country's exploration history.