Christchurch barrister Lee Lee Heah died in a climbing accident at Arapiles National Park in Victoria, Australia. The 69-year-old lawyer, known for her adventurous spirit and dedication to her profession, fell to her death while scaling the final section of a climb on Eskimo Nell.
Heah, who was admitted to the bar in 1986, had built a career spanning nearly four decades. Her legal practice in Christchurch was well-established, with her office located in the heart of the city. Colleagues and friends remember her as a “fierce lover of life and adventure” with an infectious laugh and fabulous sense of humour.
The accident occurred on Tuesday, November 19, 2024. Recreational climbers in the area were the first to respond to the incident. Climbing veteran Zorba Parer, who heard Heah’s cry, bravely free-climbed 80 meters without safety equipment to reach her. Despite the efforts of Parer and other climbers who performed CPR until paramedics arrived, Heah could not be saved.
Mount Arapiles, where the accident took place, is a world-renowned rock-climbing destination that attracts outdoor enthusiasts from across the globe. The challenging nature of the climb demonstrates Heah’s adventurous spirit, which was evident in her social media posts showcasing her travels and outdoor pursuits.
Throughout her career, Heah handled a variety of legal cases and was a popular member of the Christchurch bar and beyond with her professional ability and vibrant personality to the fore.
Lawyers, including the Criminal Bar Association, has been quick to pay tribute to Heah’s memory. Her loss is deeply felt not only in Christchurch but throughout the New Zealand legal community..
