Hi Jef, I have just found these messages for the McMeekan family while searching the net. I also live in New Zealand and have been doing genealogy research for 4yrs. I am not related but my husband is a GGG-Grandson of Robert McMeekan and Eliz Jane Withers Married 18 Sept 1863 in Christchurch. They came from Bangor Down Ireland.
Eliza Jane Withers arrived 9 Sept 1863 aboard the Accrington. I havent found how Robert arrived as yet. I have both their parents names and many of their ancestors. My contact is margaretanne@actrixc.co.nz I would love to exchange information if you wish. Hi to all the other McMeekans out there also.
Regards Margaret