An American Family Discover Their Kiwi Roots

An American Family Discover Their Kiwi Roots

An American family arrived in New Zealand on Friday after winning their ‘Trip of a Lifetime’ and the chance to re-connect with their New Zealand heritage, thanks to one of the USA's best known cable travel shows.

“The Travel Channel reaches 83 million American homes, and this trip of a lifetime will bring invaluable television exposure for New Zealand” says George Hickton, Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand.

Richard, Amy and Chyanna Wybrow, from Georgia USA, landed in Auckland to start their week long itinerary, put together by Tourism New Zealand’s International Media Programme.

The family are the lucky winners of the Travel Channel’s show, “Trip Of A Lifetime”, which fulfils the travel dreams of contestants. Each one hour episode follows the travellers as they embark on an adventure of culture, entertainment, food, and “dream come true” moments – each one designed to expand the personal story of the travelers.

Richard Wybrow’s dream was to return to New Zealand and rediscover his heritage. He has not seen his grandfather or aunt, who still live here,in many years and his New Zealand relatives have also never met his daughter, Chyanna.

Richard is of Ngai Tahu descent and wants to learn about New Zealand, and his own personal history. The ‘Trip of A Lifetime’ will give Richard and his family the chance to learn about his tribal and personal heritage, whilst discovering the many sights of New Zealand.

The family will travel around the country, including to the Bay of Islands, Kaikoura and Northland, and will also have an emotional reunion with family members in Auckland.

Ends

© Scoop Media