Featured photographs

Pictures of his life

A curated set of family favourites. Click any frame to see it larger.

For the family

Messages for the family

A place for short notes, wishes, condolences, and words of support.

Be one of the first to leave a note for Robert’s family.

A few lines are enough: a wish, a thank you, a memory, or a word of comfort.

The logbook

Stories for the logbook

The small moments, tall tales, and harbour yarns that keep his voice in the room.

Family

Joi

In remembering Robert, one of the first times I met him, he explained the large photograph hanging in his foyer. It was a photograph of Cooks Beach in Coromandel, and he proceeded to tell me about a plot of land he and Cherie bought, which ended up being an investment they were able to use to build their life and family together. He told the story to me so eloquently, with pride and with wisdom. Decades later, he was still full of pride, love, and memories when he spoke of it. It is a lesson for us to take as we build our future. It has always sat with me, and every time I see that photo hanging now, it reminds me of that tender moment I will always cherish.

Daughter

Sandra Drinkwater

Dad loved to tease and have a bit of fun. His love of animals and children was evident and he would always try to “ have a game” . He also enjoyed to give those he loved a nickname. I’m sure his grand children know what theirs was and will hold dear to that.

Markers on the chart

Moments from his life

Start

23 January 1960

Married Cherie

Cherie May Ellison, on 23 January in Auckland. A lovely wedding and Cherie made her wedding dress.

12 July 1960

First Daughter born

Sandra Elizabeth was born in Wellington.

October 1962

Kelvyn Grove, Manurewa

Moved into first family home, a brand new house in Hillpark, Manurewa that was designed by Peter Edward (his first project after university).

28 June 1962

Second daughter Fiona

Fiona Kathleen born at Middlemore hospital in Auckland.

1971

Bought Mariner II

The boat he raced and cruised for thirty years.

1981

Joined the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron

A membership he kept for the rest of his life. Robert enjoyed many fun boating activities and built 7 boats. His craftmanship was excellent. The first boats were Frank Pelin 20' Nomad designs built from scratch in the garage at home in Manurewa.

In one word

Describe Robert in one word

Choose a word already on the sail, or add one that feels right.

Click a word to make it stronger, or add a new word with your first name.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE DETAILS

Family and friends are invited to gather at the Squadron. Timing and any additional details will be shared here once confirmed.

Date

Timing

To be confirmed.

Location

Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron

181 Westhaven Drive
Westhaven Marina
Auckland 1011, New Zealand
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Service, reception, and livestream details will be added when final.