Heritage Discovery

I can provide:

• A full family history on your father’s and/or mother’s side, or

• Targeted research into a specific ancestor

• DNA-informed research into adoption, illegitimacy, or unknown parentage cases

• Narrative family histories/booklets

• Farm history research & photo books

You decide how far back you would like the research to go and which branches of your family tree you wish to explore. All research projects are customised to suit your budget and requirements.

I will meet with you in person, or communicate via email or telephone if preferred, to discuss your goals and the information you hope to uncover. All information provided to me, and all findings during research, are treated with strict confidentiality.

Please note that for post-1900 research, privacy laws may restrict access to certain records, such as adoptions or medical information. If the information you request cannot be located, I will report back to you and you may choose to revise or refine your research criteria.

With the advent of DNA testing, genealogical research has reached a new level, and many long-standing brick walls can now be broken through DNA evidence. At the same time, DNA research can uncover family secrets long thought buried, particularly around adoptions and illegitimacy, so this work is always approached with sensitivity and care.

I can assist with historic adoptions and family mysteries once a DNA test has been completed. If preferred, I can order the DNA kit for you and guide you through the entire process.

I recommend AncestryDNA, as it has the largest international database. However, DNA research is only successful if other relatives have also tested. In some cases, results may still be inconclusive.

While not all adoption searches have the outcome clients hope for, many people find comfort and value in understanding their biological heritage. It is a privilege to support clients during this deeply personal journey of discovery.

Reports are presented in a clear, well-organised format and include full source citations. I will personally walk you through the findings to ensure you understand the results.

Your report will include original documents or copies of all records used in the research, such as certificates, photographs, and transcriptions.

Online research allows costs to be kept down, and with over 25 years’ experience, I am efficient and effective in accessing major subscription databases and websites. However, not all records are available online, and some research may be delayed while waiting for international records from governments, archives, or libraries.

I am also available to visit museums, libraries, archives, and cemeteries throughout Southland and Otago. I worked closely with the Waikaia Museum Committee to produce a publication for the township’s 150th jubilee. 

An hourly fee of NZ$40.00 is charged, however, I am also happy to work to a set amount agreed upon prior to researching.  Additional costs may include postage, fuel for research travel, and the ordering of certificates.

It is recommended that an agreed allocation is set aside for the purchase of birth, marriage, and death certificates or specialised records such as military files, wills, or probate records. I will not exceed the agreed amount without your prior consent.