Wānaka Genealogical Group

15/08/2026

A PILOT'S SACRIFICE There are many stories of pilot's giving their lives to save their crew. One of the more unique ones is that of F/Gt David Aubrey of Wanaka.

Aubrey's crew from 192 Sq. were flying a special duty op along the French coast when they sent an SOS advising they were about to ditch due to engine failure. Two of the crew were lost when their Wellington X sank in rough seas, but four, including Aubrey were able to get out of the bomber.

Their dingy was launched, three clambering in but the voice of the rear gunner was heard calling for help in the darkness. Aubrey left the dingy to swim to him, instructing the two remaining to paddle after him. Sadly in the darkness and rough seas neither Aubrey nor his gunner were located.

The two survivors were found six days later and taken prisoner.

Aubrey (22) and his three other comrades are commemorated at Runnymede

14/08/2026

08/08/2026

Civil records are one of the few Irish family history record sets that are intact. Here's how to search them 🇮🇪

07/08/2026

01/08/2026

🔎What secrets lie hidden in old records and forgotten documents?🔎

As part of Family History Month in August, hear from Jocelyn Ryan, who will reveal the remarkable stories she discovered while digitising local historical collections. This talk is on at all our libraries with each talk featuring the local town and area.

Cromwell Library: Monday 3 August ,11am

Māniatoto Library: Wednesday 5 August, 11am

Alexandra Library: Monday 10 August, 11 am

Roxburgh Library: Wednesday 12 August, 11am

See you then!

28/07/2026

23/07/2026

26/06/2026

📖 Every community has stories worth preserving — and volunteers are making sure they're never forgotten.

For more than 40 years, the dedicated volunteers of the Upper Clutha History Society have been collecting, preserving and sharing the rich history of Wānaka and the Upper Clutha. From digitising archives and writing local stories to recording oral histories, their passion is helping safeguard the region's heritage for future generations.

Today, we're sharing their Volunteer Celebration Story and celebrating the incredible people whose time, passion and dedication keep local Wānaka History alive.

👉Read their full story here and discover why preserving the past matters more than ever:
https://volunteersouth.org.nz/news/upper-clutha-history-society-volunteers-celebrating-their-community

Volunteering New Zealand

05/06/2026

Free access ends 11 June.*

05/06/2026

Have you ever taken a Y-DNA test? Discover how these tests can help you understand your male line 🧬