The wedding of Edward Ludolf Leyland and Mabel Louise Hutchings at Pukenui on August 24 1902. Francis and Mary Anne just behind the bridegroom.

The Band - I'm sure they had an official title but not sure what it was.

Family photo, taken early 1900's

Family group, taken very early 1900's

Wedding party 20 April 1914 - Herbert Henry HUTCHINGS and Adelaide Lucilla MITCHELL

I thought I'd get the ball rolling with photos of my great-grandparents, Francis and Mary-Anne Hutchings. For clarity, I cut them from the photo of the Pukenui District Celebrations 1910, and removed the backgrounds.

Welcome to Far North Families

For many children born into the 21^st century, their pioneer settler ancestors are less real than the programmes they watch on television. In many cases the memories, stories and folklore surrounding their past has disappeared as successive generations have succumbed to age and illness. Many of the photos, documents and memorabilia which provide a more tangible link to the past have also gone – often dumped by earlier generations who never guessed the value, curiosity and appeal that these items would hold for their descendants.

This blog is an attempt to display a family history in virtual format. Happily, I have discovered others within the wider family who have been working away preserving and documenting their own histories. I am very grateful that we have access to as much information as we have, and especially some wonderful photographs. What you see here is the result of sharing and collaboration between us.

The information on this site is as accurate as I am able to provide at present. I'm always open to correction where errors exist. Please contact me with suggested additions and alterations, and any extra information which will enhance the wealth of material here.