Remembering settler ship

European settlers get together to talk about the past.

The Amelia Thompson, the ship that carried settlers to New Plymouth in 1841, was named after the daughter of a politician who represented Sunderland in Parliament. He bought the vessel in a bid to secure the votes of the people working in the ship-building yards.

Now, 175 years after the ship set sail from Plymouth, an anniversary and reunion is being held during Labour Weekend.

Descendants of families who travelled on the Amelia Thompson are invited to the reunion, which will be held in New Plymouth from October 21 to 23.

The programme includes a meet and greet, family displays, guest speakers, time to visit the new pioneer memorial at the Wind Wand, and a guided tour at Puke Ariki.

’’On the Sunday they will actually take us on a little tour and explain about the different items that they’ve got,’’ said Anne Francis, whose ancestors came over on the ship.

She’s interested in hearing from anyone who had ancestors on the boat including the King, Veale, Oxenham, Paynter, Roberts, Hoskin, Giddy, Grylls, Browns, Billings, Allen, Bayly, and Hamblyn families.

Francis would like people to bring along any items related to the Amelia Thompson for display.

Already there’s been more than 25 registrations, which cost $40 each, from as far away as Hawke’s Bay. The fee covers morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea. Dinner on Saturday night is at the participant’s own cost.

Contact Bronwyn Jenkins on

753 8453 or email bronwynjenkins@xtra.co.nz or Anne Francis on 758 6287 or email bfrancis@xtra.co.nz.