Introduction

Vic O’Connor may not be a pop star, but his influence echoes through some of the most emotionally raw music today. As the civil engineer father of Grammy-winning artist Lorde, Vic shaped the grounded, artistically daring environment in which she grew up. This is the story of a quietly formidable father, an evolving family, and a daughter whose new album Virgin lays bare their legacy.

Early Life and Background

Details about Vic O’Connor’s early years are limited, but his roots in Auckland, New Zealand, are well-established. A steadfast professional, he built a career in structural engineering before rising through the ranks in geophysical testing and instrumentation.

His journey is less about headlines and more about consistent dedication and craftsmanship.

Family, Parents, and Siblings

Vic O’Connor married poet Sonja Yelich after nearly three decades together, an engagement and later a beach wedding that reflected the loyalty and love at the heart of their family.

Together they raised four children—Ella (Lorde), India, Jerry, and Angelo—instilling creativity as much as discipline.

In a touching tribute written in The Listener, Lorde described her father’s unwavering support:

“I still remember… Dad is waving, holding an ice cream… I aim for a day I can look back and see a job done as well as his.”

Education

While personal educational details about Vic remain private, his leadership as Executive Director of Tonkin + Taylor’s geotechnics division implies an advanced and robust engineering background.

His technical expertise has shaped infrastructure in New Zealand and Australia, mentoring many along the way.

Career or Profession

Vic’s professional path spans decades in civil and geotechnical engineering. Joining Geotechnics in 1990, he led the company as Managing Director for nearly 30 years, until transitioning to a broader leadership role within the Tonkin + Taylor Group.

His focus now includes oversight of projects, mentorship, and fostering strategic industry relationships.

Relationship or Personal Life

Vic and Sonja’s long courtship and late engagement, proposed by Niagara Falls after nearly 30 years together, hint at a relationship grounded in patience, devotion, and quiet romance.

Their bond has created an emotional bedrock for their children, particularly Lorde, who thrived under this protective and steady family environment.

Recent News or Updates

Lorde’s new album Virgin, released on June 27, 2025, marks her boldest and most vulnerable artistic chapter yet.

Themes of femininity, identity, and raw emotion underscore the album, values shaped by a home where creativity and authenticity were nurtured through Vic’s quiet strength.

Interesting Facts

• Vic waited nearly 30 years to propose, symbolizing deep patience and loyalty.

• He shed tears watching his daughter perform at the 2016 Brit Awards.

• Lorde credits her songwriting foundation to her father’s storytelling in song and presence.

• As a civil engineer and corporate leader, Vic embodies precision, yet raised an artist known for emotional nuance.

Social Media Presence

Vic O’Connor maintains a private presence, often absent from social media. His family, meanwhile, occasionally shares glimpses of him in candid moments, most often through Sonja or Lorde’s accounts, but he remains intentionally out of the public eye.

FAQ Section