This weekend, Aotearoa New Zealand marks Matariki — the Māori New Year — a time to remember those who have passed, celebrate those still with us, and set intentions for the future. Without meaning to, I’ve found myself doing exactly that while celebrating a milestone of my own: turning 50. It began with a simple […]
Matariki, Memories, and the Unplanned Pilgrimage Read More »
110 years ago this week, on March 18th, 1915, my great-grandfather Charles Lind Lamont Young stood on the deck of the HMS Irresistible in the beautiful waters of the Dardanelles. The Irresistible was part of an attack force there to smash their way through to the Turkish capital, Constantinople. But at 4:15pm a deafening blast
Surviving the Sinking of HMS Irresistible: My Great-Grandfather’s Story Read More »
From London’s shadows to New Zealand’s shores—uncover my great-grandparents’ daring journey for love and survival.
You’ll never believe how far he went for love Read More »
At just 17, he went from the streets of England to the backblocks of New Zealand. From farming to insurance sales, he failed at almost everything he tried. But then, his persistence paid off. Find out how my grandfather created a new life and a new family, on the other side of the world.
The Man Who Never Gave Up Read More »
Brethren – this old-fashioned word may conjure up images of secretive sects, but the Open Brethren is the Christian denomination that played a huge part of my family’s history for five generations. Find out just who they were…
In search of The Brethren Read More »
My grandfather, Brian Rockel, was more than family—he was a master of bringing joy to everyone around him. Join me as I share the story of a man who lived with kindness and humor, and how his warmth shaped my life.
The nicest man you could ever hope to meet Read More »
History feels distant until it’s family. Graeme and Annette, my parents, shaped the man I am today in ways I’m only now beginning to understand. Join me as I honor their lives, their lessons, and the legacy that lives on.
West Auckland is more than home; it’s my teacher, my roots, and yes, even an ‘ancestor.’ From towering kauri trees to windswept coasts, this land has shaped my story. Let’s walk these paths together and discover the lessons hidden in every tree and shoreline.
The Silent Wisdom of Trees Read More »
In the Maori language, a pepeha is a brief form of greeting to introduce yourself and make connections. Here’s mine.
Our family tree isn’t just about lineage; it’s about the stories that shape us. With no children to pass down our history, I’m crafting a legacy in a whole new way. Let’s talk about why it matters—especially for the next generation.
Why I created One Ancestor At A Time Read More »
