The only New Zealander to appear on the country's banknotes while still alive ___ famed mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary.

Understand the Problem

The question is asking to select the correct verb form that fits the context regarding the only New Zealander on the country's banknotes while still alive, specifically referring to Sir Edmund Hillary.

More Information

Sir Edmund Hillary appeared on New Zealand's $5 note while still alive, a unique honor for a non-head of state.

Tips

A common mistake is to mix singular and plural forms. Here, 'was' is correct as it agrees with 'The only New Zealander'.

Sources

• New Zealand $5 Banknote - rbnz.govt.nz
• Solved Question - Chegg - chegg.com