The Franich Story - From Grapes to Gold

The Franich family pictured in their West Auckland vineyards behind a gold ring created by John Franich, "Vineyard Terraces", in honour of his grandfather Jozip Franich

Honouring Our Roots: From Grapes to Gold

Innovation and a pioneering spirit are woven into the DNA of every New Zealander. We are often taught to look outward to admire the men and women who made great sacrifices for the advancement of our nation. Yet, sometimes, the most inspiring stories are waiting to be uncovered in our own family archives.

After more than 55 years of serving our community as West Auckland's trusted family jewellers, we recently looked back through our own history, and the family name behind John Franich Jewellers, and found ourselves deeply moved by the story of our ancestor, Joseph (Jozip) Franich.

From the Gum Fields to the Front Page

Jozip Franich arrived in New Zealand from Croatia in 1893. Without speaking a word of English, he immediately took up the arduous work of the Northland gum fields. But Jozip was a headstrong anddetermined individual. He quickly taught himself English, evolving into a proficient writer and orator who tirelessly championed the cause of his fellow Croatian gum diggers.

He dedicated himself to his people, helping to establish benevolent organisations for the Dalmatian community and supporting the very first Croatian/English newspaper in the early 1890s. He was a man unafraid to speak up; famously challenging Premier Richard Seddon’s views on foreign emigration in the press to fiercely defend the rights of Croatian immigrants.

Building Bridges: The Boyana Boarding House

His efforts to build bridges between the two communities, along with his immense generosity in assisting new settlers, earned him the deep respect of his peers. He was a true friend to those in need.

In the city, he established a welcoming haven known as the Boyana Boarding House. Here, many early Croatian men sought lodgings while Jozip personally helped set them up with employment to better their lives in New Zealand.

A West Auckland Legacy

Eventually, Jozip's entrepreneurial spirit brought him out West, where he built strong, enduring connections within the early West Auckland wine industry. He planted his own vines and established a successful winery, carrying the beloved Boyana name with him.

Today, John Franich Jewellers proudly takes inspiration from Joseph’s remarkable journey. Like him, we have made our home in West Auckland. In a beautiful full-circle moment, we now have the immense privilege of crafting fine jewellery for the grandchildren of the very same customers who once purchased wine from the Franich family decades ago.

The Pioneering Spirit Behind the 'Boyana' Collection

To honour his resilience, generosity, and vision, we have named our latest jewellery collection Boyana.

Rather than focusing on the traditional facets of our craft, this specific collection is deeply inspired by the rich colours of the vineyard seasons. Drawing upon the hues of the grapes, the leaves, and theNew Zealand landscapes , it is a joyful and personal tribute to the land that shaped our family history.

From our family to yours, we invite you to visit our NorthWest boutique  and be part of our continuing story.

Ovdje ste dobrodošli. You are welcome here.