One of Aotearoa New Zealand's leading climbers has donated $1.37 million to fund respiratory medicine research at the University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka.
Murray Jones, of Bannockburn, who died in December 2025, credits the work of Dr Ben Brockway and the Otago Respiratory Research Unit (ORRU) with adding 10 years to his life.
He was one of New Zealand's leading climbers and worked with Sir Edmund Hillary and the Himalayan Trust in Nepal. On two occasions he was instrumental in providing lifesaving support for Sir Edmund.
Executor of Mr Jones' estate, Stephen Rodgers, says Mr Jones suffered a respiratory illness and was a participant in research being undertaken by Dr Brockway.
"He believed the work being done by Dr Brockway gave him 10 years of life he would otherwise not have had.
"The care, treatment and support he got from him and his team was of such a high level that he wanted to make a significant contribution to the University and aid that research," Mr Rodgers says.
Mr Jones wished to provide meaningful support to the ORRU and for his gift to continue both existing and new research in the field.
Dr Brockway says it was a privilege looking after Mr Jones and he greatly enjoyed chatting with him about climbing, politics, travel and his lifetime of experiences.
"I remember one day he spotted my Patagonia rain jacket and mentioned his approval - in typical Murray fashion he had climbed a new route with Yvon Chouinard (who set up the company) on Sabre Peak in the Darran Mountains of Fiordland way back in 1971. From there the conversation included environmental advocacy, worker's rights, responsible employment practice, British political upheaval, the advantages of a reverse-curve pick on an ice axe, and the joys of Central Otago fruit – there was never a dull moment!
"Murray was always very kind, but we were floored by the generosity of his bequest, which will allow us to support young researchers in respiratory medicine for many years to come."
Faculty of Medicine – Dunedin Dean and Head of Region Professor Suetonia Green is thrilled the work of Dr Brockway and the whole ORRU team has been recognised with such a significant donation.
"The Unit is known for its cutting-edge research into respiratory disease and treatment. Murray's generous gift ensures that work will not only continue, but broaden in scope, which will be of great benefit to the community through better understanding of how to treat diseases that impact lung health and wellbeing," she says.
Director Development and Alumni Relations Shelagh Murray says Otago is incredibly grateful for Mr Jones' generous gift.
"His recognition and support ensures the amazing mahi being undertaken by Otago researchers will continue well into the future."
