Whanganui Research

Most people researching their whakapapa are aware of libraries and repositories that hold national resources such as Archives New Zealand and the National Library. However, once you have found out the Iwi and Hapu to which your people belong it is well worth while going to the local repositories as they often hold a wide range of local resources. What is more the staff will be knowledgeable about the people and history of their area and may be able to offer specialized local advice about your research.

I was recently in Whanganui and spent a wonderful time exploring the research opportunities in the city. There has recently been some controversy about the spelling. Basically, the river and the district are spelled with an H ie Whanganui while the city has usually been spelled without the H ie Wanganui. It seems that now the city name can be spelled with or without the H.

Repositories are all sited close together in the city centre so they are easily accessible to visitors. Apart from the Museum Archives ($5.00) using the archives in person is free although you will be charged a nominal fee for photocopying. For some you will need to make an appointment. If you are unable to visit the city staff will carry out research for you for $60.00 per hour.

It is important to gather together all the information you already have and write this clearly in note form. This will prevent you wasting time redoing previous research, make it easier for staff to advise you and speed up the research process.

The Alexander Heritage and Research Library is the best place to go for historical whakapapa information. This is a beautifully maintained Art Deco building with a spacious reading room holding a wide range of resources, books, records, on-line access to data bases and extremely helpful staff who will advise you on your research. Sandy Nepia and her assistant Jasmin Ratana are the experts on Maori research.

Address: Private Bag 3005, Wanganui Mail Centre, Wanganui 4540