Schumacher

Family Reunion

Waitangi Weekend, February 6th - 8th 2026

Midhirst, Taranaki

In 1886, Nicolaus Schumacher acquired 80 acres on Kent Terrace in Midhirst, Taranaki. In 2026, we are celebrating this milestone with a special family reunion to mark 140 years of our heritage.

Black and white vintage photograph of a large group of people, including adults and children, standing and sitting outside a building with a window, dressed in mid-20th century clothing.

Why 2026?

Snow-capped mountain, Mt. Taranaki, viewed from a green field with a hedge and trees in the foreground under a clear blue sky.

With Waitangi Day falling on a Friday in 2026, we've got ourselves a perfect long weekend! It's been way too long since our last family reunion, and we're really looking forward to catching up with everyone, sharing stories, and making new memories together.

Weekend Schedule

  • Friday 6th February

    7PM

    Welcome Mixer - Midhirst Hall

    Casual gathering to reconnect

    Family photos and other memorabilia on display at the hall

  • Saturday 7th February

    Morning - Self-Guided Explorations

    Explore the beautiful Taranaki region at your leisure.

    Afternoon - Homestead

    3:00 PM: House and farm tour

    Evening Celebrations - Midhirst Combined Sports Club

    4:30 PM: Cocktail hour

    6:00 PM: Dinner served by food trucks

    7:00 PM: Family Quiz

    9:30 PM: Live band with drinks and dancing

  • Sunday 8th February

    12PM

    Farewell BBQ

    BBQ lunch at the homestead for anyone who wants to come

FAQs

  • All descendants of Joe and Agnes Schumacher and family are welcome.

  • Homestead, at 5 Kent Terrace, Midhirst Hall and Combined Sports Club.

  • There are a number of motels in Stratford, we recommend Amity Court. There is a holiday park in Stratford, with cabins, camping facilities and camper van parking. New Plymouth has several 4 star hotels and is a 30 minute drive away.

    There’s also room for camper vans at the Midhirst domain, and bathroom facilities are available.

  • Event is hosted at the homestead on Kent Terrace, by Justin and Adrianna Schumacher and Dennis and Boo Schumacher.

  • Please bring family treasures for display in the hall, wedding photos etc.

    Local volunteers appreciated for help setting up the hall.

  • This event is free!

  • You're welcome to bring your own food and drinks to any of the events!

    Friday: Some drinks and nibbles are provided.

    Saturday: Some drinks provided. Food trucks will be parked at the domain where you can purchase dinner.

    Sunday: BBQ lunch and some drinks provided.

    If you’d like to enjoy the refreshments we provide, we would appreciate a small koha from those who can.

  • Saturday is the main event, but we are hoping to see as many of you as possible over the weekend!

  • It would be great if you could to give us an idea of numbers, but no worries if not. You can use the Register form below to RSVP or let Justin know!

Register

Black and white photo of Midhirst and dairy factory with classic cars parked in front, under a partly cloudy sky.