Missing Family's hopes for man who 'lived for the mountains' fade

FOR adventure-loving Eli Sweeting, it was just another hiking trip - but it turned out to be one from which he never returned.

- Shannon BROWN

An experienced climber, the 25-year-old Bristolian had trekked the heights of New Zealand's South Island on numerous previous occasions. Eli adored being up in the mountains.

His family, who moved to Port Motueka, in New Zealand, from Bristol, are now resigned to the fact that this stunning alpine landscape which he loved so much is where he met his untimely death.

Sister Serena Sweeting described Eli as “one of the kindest, most compassionate people” who “inspires me to live and get out of my comfort zone”.

“My brother has always enjoyed being in the mountains, and adventure is what he lives for,” Serena said.

“Eli is one of the kindest, most compassionate people in my life, and he has always been there for me.

“He inspires me to live and get out of my comfort zone, as well as listens and genuinely wants to know you and your story.

“Anyone who has met him will know what I mean. He has such a positive, vibrant, and supportive energy.”