Welcome to the Gisborne Holden Family Reunion
Gisborne, 26-27 February 2027
Celebrating the descendants of Thomas and Lizzie Holden.
Dalby, Rena, Mervin (Pat), Lorna, Hilson (Tom) and Ronald.
Join us in beautiful Gisborne, New Zealand, for a memorable weekend connecting generations. We are gathering on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 February 2027 to celebrate our shared heritage, recount stories, and make new memories together.
PHOTO ABOVE: From left - Tom, Lorna, Pat, Ronald and Dalby.
Reunion events
We have planned three special gathering events across Friday and Saturday so everyone can reconnect and celebrate together.
Friday evening 26 February
Kick off the weekend at Gisborne Yacht Club on Friday 26 February with casual drinks and food trucks available. A relaxed evening to catch up with family arriving from near and far.
Saturday 27 February
Gather at one of the original Holden family sites at 410 Goodwin Rd on Saturday for a day of family events.
Saturday reunion dinner 27 February
Celebrate our family bonds at the main reunion dinner on Saturday evening, featuring speeches, family slideshows, and wonderful food.
Travel and accommodation options
Planning your trip to Gisborne? Check out our recommendations for local accommodation, transport options, and travel details.
"Bringing the Holden family together in Gisborne after all these years will be truly special. Make sure to complete your registration so we can finalise catering and venue details as soon as possible. We would love to hear from you"
The Organising Committee, Holden Family Reunion
Are you attending the reunion?
Please complete your registration form as soon as possible so we can get on with the business of organising a great event!
Payment can be easily made via direct credit once your RSVP details are submitted.
Frequently asked questions
When is the registration deadline?
Please submit your registration form and direct credit payment by Tuesday 01 December 2026 to assist with final catering numbers but we appreciate if you can get us your registration as soon as possible.
How do I pay for the events?
After filling out the registration form, a summary of your registration and total booking cost, plus bank account details for direct credit payment will be sent via email confirmation within 48 hours.
Can children attend?
Absolutely! The Gisborne Holden Family Reunion is an all-generations event, and we have activities planned for all ages. There is a charge for children 6-17 years but children under 5 are free.
Who do I contact if I have information or names that I want to add to the Family Tree?
Please contact Mary Briant on details below.
How long will this website be available to view?
This website will be available until August 2027 by which time the Family Tree orders will have been dispatched.
Family tree orders
Order forms for the family tree will be available at the Reunion. The orders will be dispatched once the Family Tree has been updated, checked and printed.
Family photos
Family group photos and descendant group photos will be taken at the reunion. They will be available to download from this website until August 2027.
Get in touch with the committee
If you have any questions, comments or information relevant to the reunion please email the committee and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Reunion dates
Friday 26 February 2026: 5pm – 9pm
Saturday 27 February 2026: 9am – 10:30pm
Reunion Committee & Family Links
LORNA:
Mary Briant - 027 412 8360
Suzy Gardner - 027 440 0210
PAT:
Jane Williams - 027 445 9661
RONALD:
Jim & Jenny Holden - 021 261 1730
TOM & DALBY:
Angela Williams - 021463305
FAMILY TREE/HISTORIAN:
Mary Briant - 027 412 8360
FARM TOURS:
Bruce Holden - 027 335 0596 - email
MC:
Gerald Holden - 027 667 1071
REGISTRATION:
Georgie Kemp - email
Family updates
PHOTO: From left - Thomas, Lizzie, Dalby.