Documenting Family Memories and Stories: Best Storyworth® Alternatives in New Zealand

In today’s fast-paced world, preserving family memories has become more important than ever.

In the United States, Storyworth® has earned widespread popularity as a simple yet meaningful way to capture a loved one’s life stories. Each week, Storyworth emails a new prompt to the storyteller, who can type or dictate their answer. After a year, all of these stories are compiled into a printed keepsake book — a tangible heirloom designed to be shared across generations.

But for families in New Zealand, Storyworth isn’t the only option. This article explores the best Storyworth alternatives available locally, including Remento, Moving Memories, Origin Stories, and Chapters — each offering a different approach to preserving stories in ways that feel authentic, accessible, and deeply personal.

Context: Why Preserving Family Stories Matters

From the vibrant streets of Auckland and Wellington to the peaceful hills of Central Otago, family stories are the threads that bind generations together. Preserving these memories is more than nostalgia — it’s an act of legacy. Our stories give meaning to our lives, connect us to our ancestors, and help us pass on wisdom, values, and resilience to those who follow.

The act of documenting family stories:

• Strengthens family bonds: Fosters closer connections and understanding, enhancing familial relationships and support networks. (Learn more)
• Builds resilience in children: Learning about family stories, including past challenges and triumphs, can help children develop resilience by understanding the strength and perseverance demonstrated by previous generations. (Learn more)
• Supports enhanced cognitive function: Recalling and narrating stories engages memory and cognitive processes, potentially improving mental acuity and memory retention. (Learn more)
• Spurs validation and affirmation: Receiving acknowledgment and appreciation for one's life story can bolster self-esteem and confidence. (Learn more)
• Reduces feelings of isolation: Engaging with family through storytelling can alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation, promoting a sense of belonging. (Learn more)

By capturing these stories, we not only honor the experiences of our elders but also create a legacy of resilience, wisdom, and shared values that can inspire and guide our children and grandchildren. 

Storyworth: A Familiar Favourite

Storyworth has long been the most recognised name in this space. The US-based service emails your storyteller one question per week for a year, with a total of 52 prompts. They can type their answers directly into the email or use dictation to speak their responses.

Each story is compiled into a professionally printed book at the end of the year, which can be ordered in hardback form. The simplicity of Storyworth makes it appealing for families who prefer structure and consistency.

However, Storyworth’s dictation feature comes with limitations. While it allows storytellers to speak instead of type, the software transcribes every word exactly as it is spoken, including filler words and pauses, without punctuation or editing. That means storytellers must speak precisely how they want their words printed.

And while the book looks lovely, Storyworth does not preserve the storyteller’s actual voice. The audio is not saved, so families cannot listen back or hear their loved one’s tone, laughter, or emotion; only the written text remains.

For those who value ease and tradition, Storyworth still offers a trusted solution. But for Kiwis who want to preserve the sound and spirit of their loved ones’ stories, newer options offer something more immersive.

Learn more: Storyworth Reviews

Remento: A Leading Storyworth Alternative in New Zealand

For New Zealanders wanting something deeper than text on a page, Remento brings storytelling into the modern age by combining warmth, technology, and design in a way that feels personal and human.

Instead of asking storytellers to type or dictate perfectly, Remento invites them to speak naturally, just as they would in conversation with family.

Then, Remento's Speech-to-Story technology turns those spoken memories into beautifully written narratives that retain the storyteller’s rhythm and tone. Families can choose between a polished narrative version or a lightly cleaned-up transcript that keeps their voice authentic.

What truly sets Remento apart is how it blends the written and spoken experience. Each hardcover book includes QR codes that link back to the original voice or video recordings, allowing readers to hear the storyteller’s voice as they read their words. For many families, that combination of permanence and intimacy is profoundly moving.

“It is one thing to read my mum’s stories,” one customer shared. “But hearing her voice tell them, that is the part that gets you.”

Every Remento journey starts with a simple invitation. Each week, storytellers receive a new question by text or email, some selected by the family and others from Remento’s expert-curated library. With a single click, they can record directly from their phone or computer, with no apps, logins, or passwords required.

Those recordings are then transformed automatically into written stories, which can be reviewed, edited, or compiled into a custom-printed book. The experience is designed to be effortless for older relatives while deeply rewarding for the family member who gifted it.

Why Remento is ideal for New Zealand families

Remento combines emotional connection with practical accessibility, a rare mix that works well across generations and time zones.

• No writing required: Ideal for storytellers who find typing tedious or intimidating. They can simply talk.
• Preserves both story and voice: Future generations can read and hear their loved ones through QR-linked recordings.
• Collaborative and family-friendly: Relatives can add photos, suggest prompts, and share reactions, making it a shared project rather than a solo task.
• Simple for older adults: Designed with accessibility in mind, using large text, guided steps, and clear instructions.
• Instant, heartfelt gift: Digital delivery means it can be gifted across borders, perfect for New Zealand families with relatives abroad.
• A legacy you can hold: Each finished book is printed on high-quality paper, bound in hardcover, and ready to become a family heirloom.

At around NZD $165, Remento includes a full year of unlimited storytelling and one beautifully printed book. Additional copies can be ordered easily for siblings or grandchildren.

But the price does not fully capture the value. For most families, the emotional impact of hearing a loved one’s voice tell their story is what makes Remento unforgettable. As one Kiwi customer put it:

“We got the book, but what we really got was Mum’s voice, forever.”

Remento vs. Storyworth: Key Differences in New Zealand

1. Storytelling method

Storyworth: Storytellers receive one email prompt each week and reply by typing or dictating their answers. It works well for those who enjoy writing or prefer a structured, text-based routine. While Storyworth does offer voice dictation, it transcribes speech exactly as spoken and does not save the audio recording, meaning tone and emotion are lost.

Remento: Instead of typing, storytellers simply speak their memories aloud on any smartphone, tablet, or computer. Remento’s Speech-to-Story™ technology automatically turns those recordings into polished written stories. Each one can be formatted as a cleaned transcript or as a narrative that reads like a memoir — and every recording is preserved alongside the text. The result keeps the storyteller’s natural voice, rhythm, and personality intact, without any need for writing or editing.

2. Ease of use

Storyworth: Storytellers reply to weekly emails or log in to write their answers. It’s generally easy to use, though it still involves typing or dictating responses and navigating through email prompts.

Remento: Designed for simplicity, Remento eliminates technical barriers entirely. There are no apps, logins, or passwords. The storyteller clicks a link, presses record, and begins speaking. The process is effortless — even for older relatives or those unfamiliar with technology — and can be done on any device.

3. Family involvement

Storyworth: Storyworth is mostly a solo experience. Family members can suggest questions and later enjoy the completed book, but only one storyteller participates at a time.

Remento: Storytelling is collaborative from start to finish. Families can upload photos, suggest or vote on prompts, comment on stories, and receive updates as new recordings are shared. It becomes an ongoing shared project that strengthens family connection rather than a one-person task.

4. Customization and prompts

Storyworth: Provides a fixed set of standard prompts, with the ability to add custom ones.

Remento: Offers an extensive, expert-curated library of prompts covering life stages, values, and cultural moments. Families can personalize each question, upload photos, or write their own. Every story can be tailored to the storyteller’s experiences, making it more meaningful for families everywhere.

5. Output and keepsake

Storyworth: Produces a color-printed hardcover book containing the written responses. Dictated stories appear as plain text only; the original audio is not included or saved.

Remento: Creates a full-color, customizable hardcover book that includes both the beautifully written stories and QR codes linking directly to the storyteller’s actual voice recordings. Readers can scan any page to hear the person behind the story — preserving tone, laughter, and emotion alongside the words.

Comparison Guide for New Zealand: Remento v. Storyworth

Learn more about the differences between Remento and Storyworth

Remento Reviews from New Zealand

• "I bought Remento as a gift for my dad, thinking it would be a unique Christmas surprise. But in truth, I was gifting myself endless stories too precious to lose." - Mia P. (Wellington)
• "The moment I realized I could hold our family's Remento book and flip through the memories of my parents, I knew I chose the right gift. You can't replace holding something in your hands." - Tane R. (Christchurch)
• "My dad has a wealth of stories from the farm. Thanks to Remento, he doesn't have to write anything. He just talks, and the magic happens. Perfect for him!" - Niko E. (Hamilton)
• "Remento isn't just a keepsake; it's become a way for me to connect deeply with my kaumatua. We discuss memories weekly, strengthening our bond." - Manaaki H. (Dunedin)

Read more Remento reviews

Moving Memories: Professional Interviews

Moving Memories is a company dedicated to preserving family stories through personal documentary video memoirs. Founded in memory of Tony Parker, the company aims to capture the essence, voice, and personality of storytellers, ensuring that their stories endure for future generations. Through both online and face-to-face interviews, Moving Memories creates biographical documentaries that incorporate photos, music, and titles, offering a priceless gift for families who wish to hear and see their loved ones share insights and memories.

The company also offers additional services such as funeral tribute videos, night classes, and video coaching to accommodate varying needs. They provide tailored video packages and resources like life story interview questions to guide clients in sharing their narratives. Moving Memories emphasizes the emotional and validating experience of sharing one's life journey, positioning these video memoirs as invaluable legacies. By focusing on capturing memories that go beyond material possessions, Moving Memories ensures that family histories are not lost but cherished and remembered.

Origin Stories: Professional Interviews by Emily Anderson

Origin Stories, founded by Emily Anderson, a trained journalist and oral historian, offers a unique way to capture and preserve personal and family histories. Through video interviews, audio recordings, and photo storybooks, the company helps individuals share their life journeys and wisdom in a meaningful and lasting way. These life history interviews provide an opportunity for reflection while serving as a legacy for future generations, turning the recollections of loved ones into treasured family heirlooms. The process is designed to be relaxed and enjoyable, making it a perfect gift for special occasions such as retirements, birthdays, or anniversaries.

The company emphasizes the importance of personal narratives, offering services that ensure a lifetime of memories can be captured in just a few hours. Clients have shared that the interviews conducted by Emily are sensitive, insightful, and effectively capture the essence of their stories. Origin Stories aims to make preserving family heritage accessible and impactful, ensuring that every story, voice, and experience can be cherished and remembered by generations to come. Through their commitment to storytelling, they enable individuals to leave a lasting legacy and connect deeply with their family history.

Chapters: Professionally Conducting Interviews

Chapters is a storytelling service based in Wellington, New Zealand, committed to preserving personal and family histories through memory books, life story packages, and memorial books. The process involves personal history interviews, photographs, and creative writing to capture the essence of each narrative. Chapters caters to various needs including later life planning, recording special life lessons, and creating eulogies or funeral slideshows. Specialized services are available for families dealing with memory loss, ensuring stories are preserved before they fade.

The company emphasizes the benefits of storytelling, encouraging individuals not to wait until it's too late to share their memories. With a focus on empathy, creativity, and respect, Chapters promises a supportive experience for clients as their stories are carefully crafted into lasting legacies. Additionally, the company donates a portion of its profits to Dementia New Zealand. Founded by Suzee Wolstenholme, Chapters aims to provide a valuable storytelling experience while helping future generations connect with their past.

Moving Memories: Boutique One-On-One Interviews

Moving Memories, founded by Nicola Kane in February 2021, is dedicated to preserving family stories through personalized video memoirs. Inspired by the loss of her father in 2018 without recording his story, Nicola created this company to help others avoid similar regrets. With a background in IT and communications and experience in producing promotional videos, she finds joy in capturing the memories and life lessons that shape individuals. Moving Memories offers a collaborative approach, ensuring that each narrative reflects the storyteller’s wishes.

The process begins with a planning session to tailor the content according to the client's preferences. Moving Memories provides resources like a list of 30 life story questions to assist clients in sharing their narratives. Nicola emphasizes the unique nature of each story and strives to deliver results that clients are happy with. Her mission is not only to save personal histories but also to celebrate them, recognizing the importance of preserving these stories for future generations. Moving Memories serves as a heartfelt tribute to the legacies of loved ones, ensuring their voices and experiences are never forgotten.

Conclusion: A gift for the future

Preserving your family's memories is a priceless gift to future generations. With these Storyworth alternatives, customers in New Zealand have excellent options to capture their unique stories and experiences. Whether you choose Remento for its user-friendly approach and beautiful books or one of the local, white-glove memoir services, the most important thing is to start preserving your family's legacy today.