Gillian Torckler

ABOUT

In Brief

Gillian Torckler is a medical scientist and diver, and she writes books for children and adults. Her published writing often focuses on the underwater world of New Zealand. Her book titles include Underwater Wonders of New Zealand (1999), and the Life-Size Guide to New Zealand Fish (2003). Many of her books feature the work of her husband, professional photographer, Darryl Torckler. Gillian Torckler is available for school visits as part of the Book Council’s Writers in Schools programme.

In Detail

Gillian Torckler (born in 1964) is a writer and medical scientist.

Born in England, Gillian Torckler immigrated to New Zealand in 1977. Educated in Canada and in New Zealand, Torckler began her medical career as a Cardiac Ultrasonographer. In 1996 Torckler became a Medical Research Scientist (Ultrasound), work she continues to do today.

Gillian Torckler writes books for children and adults. Her books include: Underwater Wonders of New Zealand (1999), Kiwi Adventures – Snorkelling (2002) and Kiwi Adventures – Trout Fishing (2002), all of which feature the work of Torckler’s husband, professional photographer, Darryl Torckler.

Gillian Torckler lives in Warkworth and is available for school visits through the Writers in Schools programme.

Life-Size Guide to New Zealand Fish (2003) by Gillian and Darryl Torckler has full colour photos and informative text.

What Am I? (2003) introduces eleven living things form New Zealand's ocean in a fun and non threatening way for younger children, whilst providing enough intrigue and information for older children. Photos and rhymes gives clues to help the reader guess the identity of the creature.

Further books include, Real-size Guide to the New Zealand Rocky Shore (2004); Destination Southern Lakes (2006); Destination Auckland (2007); The Stuck There Forever Boat (2008); Top New Zealand Dive Sites (2008), and You've Only Just Begun (2009).