The Clarke Family of Te Waimate
This site has been set up to share historical information about one of our nation’s very early pioneer families.
Clarke Family Descendants at our 180th reunion 4 April 2004
The Clarke family in New Zealand begins with George and Martha Clarke.
George and Martha Clarke left Wymondham, Norfolk, England for Keri Keri New Zealand in 1823.
They arrived at Keri Keri on April the 4th 1824.
They came as lay missionaries and worked tirelessly for the Māori people and raised a large family at Te Waimate
George died on 27th of July 1875
“That he was highly esteemed both by the settlers and Māori was shown by the large gathering at his funeral on Sunday week. As he left his own country for the good of the nation, and spent his life seeking to promote their welfare, it was fitting that they should perform the last offices. Accordingly, he was carried to his grave by Māori, at which the service was also read by two Māori clergymen” (New Zealand Weekly News August 14 1875)
Martha died on 8th of December 1882
Throughout her life her love for the Māori people remained strong, even to her death for when the end came, her express request on her death bed was that the funeral service should be conducted in the Māori language by a Māori clergy man. “I left my home” she said, “for the good of the natives: I have spent my life among them; let them bury me”
(Stock 1935)
To learn about their lives and families in the early days of our nation we invite you to explore our Web Site.
Clarke Family of Te Waimate Society Incorporated