Adventure traveller dies

Waimarino Bulletin, Issue 7, 2 September 1988, Page 25

Adventure traveller dies

A well-known m o u n taineer and founder of adventure tourism in New Zealand died peacefully on Saturday after a brief illness. Walter Romanes, whose links to the Ruapehu region include his successful businesses Venturetreks and Venture Lodge, developed a distinguished record of experience over a span of nearly 40 years. Mr Romanes began trekking in the early 1950's in New Zealand

then later took part in expeditions all over the world, including an ascent of Mt Erebus - a feat not achieved since 1905. In 1970 he formed his New Zealand adventure travel company - Venturetreks. He passed on fulfilment and excitement of adventure to many thousands through the travel company. Mr Romanes was a member of the New Zealand Alpine Club for 30 years. While an adventurer in ■■■■■■■■■■■■■

every sense of the word, his other interests included a love of family, sailing and a dedication to preserving Antarctica and the world's wilderness areas in their natural state. His business partners Peter Gibbs and David Beattie have vowed to carry on the spirit of adventure and dedication that Mr Romanes instiled in Venturetreks. That way, they say, his commitments and dreams will continue to be fulfilled.