Dear Mr Mapstone, A special thank to you for your prompt answer to my inquiry. Very professional information and suggestions. I am not enough familiar with the process but suppose that originally a birth was recorded in a BOOK by a registrar. On the bottom of Ernest's birth certificate from Registration District Auckland it says: <"Adopted" Walter Foster, Superintendent Registrar> As the adoption probably took place after the death of the mother (6.12.1918) there must be a mention inserted in the BOOK after the adoption. What office/person is entitled to consult the BOOK? Would the "Walter Foster, Superintendent Registrar" help further? I hope I don't abuse by coming back on the subject. Thank you and regards, André & Margaret STUECKELBERGER - ROBINSON in Sydney