Family and faith come together at RootsTech 2026, the world’s largest family history and genealogy gathering, hosted by FamilySearch. Whether you’re just starting your family history or you’re an experienced researcher, RootsTech offers on‑demand learning, live sessions, and tools for all ages and skill levels—with a special line-up for Australia, New Zealand, and the islands of the Pacific.
Read a report by Khalia Strong writing for Pacific Media Network on RootStech 2026 and how the event relates to the South Pacific.
DOWNLOADJoin Us for RootsTech 2026
There’s still time to take part. Register now: Visit Rootstech.org to sign up and personalise your schedule.
New in 2026: Sessions for Pacific Researchers (GMT+13)
- Migration Waves to Australia: Researching 20th Century Newcomers
Ruth Graham
Thu, 12:00 PM (Duration: 18:55) - Searching for Burial and Cemetery Records in Australian States and Territories
Shauna Hicks
Thu, 12:00 PM (Duration: 1:00:00) - From Down Under to Your Desk: Beginning Australian and New Zealand Research
Kelli Allen, QG; Brielle Beardall
Fri, 12:30 PM (Duration: 1:00:00) - Researching Australian Ancestors: More than Convicts
Andrew Redfern
Sat, 12:30 PM (Duration: 1:00:00) - Getting Started with Polynesian Genealogy Research
Miyamoto Loretta Jensen; Juliette Hart
Sun, 11:00 AM (Duration: 1:00:00)
Tip: After registering, add these classes to your personal schedule so you don’t miss the live release time. Most sessions remain available on‑demand to watch when it suits you.
Why RootsTech Matters in the Pacific
- Celebrate identity and heritage: Learn practical ways to gather stories, photographs, and records from across Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific Islands.
- Find records that fit our context: From migration and passenger lists to cemetery, land, and church records, sessions highlight sources relevant to our region.
- Connect the generations: Discover simple activities for families, quorums, classes, and youth groups to capture memories and strengthen bonds at home and in the community.
- Build skills at your pace: Short tutorials and one‑hour classes support beginners through to advanced researchers.
How to Get the Most from RootsTech
- Register (free for online; in‑person passes from US$79) at Rootstech.org.
- Set your timezone to GMT+13 (NZDT) to view local release times.
- Choose Pacific‑focused classes (see list above) and add them to your schedule.
- Bring a name: Start with one ancestor or family story you’d like to learn more about.
- Share what you find with whānau/aiga/‘ohana—capture voice notes, photos, and stories while memories are fresh.
About RootsTech and FamilySearch
RootsTech is presented by FamilySearch, a non‑profit organisation sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints. FamilySearch provides free tools and resources to help people discover, gather, and connect their families across generations.