Friends and supporters of a young Dunedin man who died on a solo climbing trip have raised thousands of dollars to fund Land Search and Rescue (LandSAR).
Connor Purvis, 20, went missing in the “rugged and wild” country around Mt Huxley, LandSAR spent days trying to find him.
His body was found on January 7 after an extensive search.
His employers, Bike House Dunedin, set up the Givealittle page.
“Connor’s passing has deeply affected his family, friends and everyone at Bike House, as well as the wider Dunedin community.
“[He] will be remembered for his kindness, generosity and the positive impact he had on all those around him,” the page said.
Connor’s funeral was held yesterday in South Dunedin.
Within 22 hours more than $3000 was raised.
Otago Coastal Search and Rescue co-ordinator Sergeant Matt Sheat said the search involved “hard work, in a remote, rugged and high-risk environment”.
Mr Purvis was a former Otago Boys’ High School (OBHS) student and a cornet player in the Kaikorai Metropolitan Brass band.
OBHS rector Richard Hall said Mr Purvis was “a much-loved former student and a fine young man”.