FindmyPast

Posted by Nelson Public Libraries on 11 February 2011

Nelson Public Libraries now subscribes to FindMyPast - Australasian edition, a welcome addtion to the Libraries, resources for family history research.

This online resource can be accessed in the Libraries (just like Ancestry Library).

What can I find on FindMyPast?

Over 50 million records from Australia, New Zealand, Pacific Islands and Papua New Guinea.

New Zealand records include a range of:

  • Directories (Wises)- 1890-1905
  • electoral rolls
  • Cyclopedias
  • Gazettes
  • Military records
Search tips

  • You will get best search results if you start with a single name, place or subject in the First or Last Name or keyword field. Focus your search by selecting the Country/State or Records to Search.

  • Remember that you may need to try more than one way to search for your ancestor's name. They may be in some records with initials instead of a first name. Spelling was not always standardised so remember to try the phonetic spelling of your ancestor's name or other search word.
Beginning your search
  • There are many ways to search for your ancestors on findmypast.com.au.
  • Start by conducting a search for your ancestor's name or a place or subject (using the keyword field) then narrow down your search by using the other search criteria: Country, State, Matching Type and Record Category to Search.
  • To begin, use the search box on the homepage. Once you have typed your ancestor's name or other search word in the box on the homepage, click the green Search button.
  • You can also start your search by clicking the Search Records button at the top of the page. From here you can select the country and which records you'd like to search. You can select View All Records for less specific results.
  • You will receive many more results by searching for just a single name or other search word than if you add other information in other search fields.

For more assistance, ask the staff at the Information Desk