How do I request my records from the Good Shepherd Sisters archive?

You can contact the Good Shepherd Archive by phone or email Requesting your records can bring up a range of emotions. Learn where you can find support to help you on your journey.

You can:

• phone:
  • 1800 812 702 (free call within Australia)  
  • 0061 1800 812 702 (from New Zealand) 
• email archives@goodshep.org.au.   

Or you can use our online records request form. This form lets you request records from more than organisation at a time. 

They will ask for some information from you 

The Good Shepherd Archive will ask you for proof of your identity (for example, a copy of your birth certificate or current driver licence).

If you are requesting records about someone else (for example, whānau), the Good Shepherd Archive will want evidence that you have their permission (such as a written and signed letter from the whānau member).

If the person you are requesting records about is deceased, the Good Shepherd Archive will want proof of:  

• the person’s death and 
• your relationship to the person. 

Learn more about requesting records from the Good Shepherd Archiveopen_in_new.

They will provide you with paper copies of records by post.

The Good Shepherd Sisters also provide support to former residents 

The Good Shepherd Sisters can provide: 

• help to access your records, if you were a former resident 
• help with accessing historical records of former residents. 

They need to respond to your request within 20 working days 

Under the Privacy Act the Good Shepherd Archive needs to respond to your request within 20 working days. If they need more time to complete your request, they need to tell you why and how much longer it will take them. 

The Privacy Act applies to an overseas agency in respect of any action taken while carrying on business in New Zealand - for example, if the Good Shepherd Sisters were operating in New Zealand while you were in their care. 

Your records may be redacted 

The Good Shepherd Archive may redact (remove or hide) information from your records if required by the Privacy Act. Learn more about redactions.