Robert Wellwood
Robert Wellwood | |
|---|---|
| Born | c. 21 May 1836 County Kilkenny, Ireland |
| Died | 26 January 1927 |
| Occupation(s) | Farmer, auctioneer, municipal leader |
| Known for | First mayor of Hastings, New Zealand |
Robert Wellwood (circa 21 May 1836 – 26 January 1927) was a prominent figure in New Zealand as a farmer, auctioneer, commission agent, and municipal leader. Originating from County Kilkenny, Ireland, he emigrated to New Zealand aboard the Queen of Avon, reaching Wellington in July 1859.
On 29 September 1886, Wellwood was chosen without opposition as the inaugural mayor of Hastings. He held this position until his resignation on 21 December 1887, after which George Ellis took over the role.
Early life
Robert Wellwood was born to Ambrose Wellwood and Ann Proctor during the period when Ireland was united with Great Britain. After arriving in New Zealand, he traveled extensively before settling in Hastings. He briefly worked for J N Williams and made an unsuccessful attempt to participate in the Otago gold rush. Subsequently, he purchased land near Frimley, where he founded the Waikoko homestead to support his agricultural pursuits.
Auctioneering
Following the sale of his property to William Nelson, Wellwood established a business specializing in auctioneering. According to local historian Mary Boyd, his saleyards were "unrivalled in the North Island" and comprised 24 pens capable of accommodating thousands of livestock. Demonstrating his entrepreneurial mindset, he sought to transfer ownership of the saleyards to a corporate entity, expressing the view that "Life was made up of speculation." Additionally, he inaugurated a wholesale warehouse and organized a grand fancy dress ball to celebrate this milestone.
Early councils
Prior to Hastings achieving borough status in 1884, governance was managed by the Hawke's Bay County Council alongside the Heretaunga Road Board. Wellwood contributed as a member of the road board, which was responsible for constructing roads and bridges essential for regional connectivity.
Borough council
On 2 January 1884, Hastings was officially declared a town district by the Governor, having met requirements of a population exceeding 500 and at least 50 householders—approximately 617 people resided there at that time. The newly formed town board consisted of five elected commissioners selected through a public meeting; Wellwood stood as one of the candidates. A discussion emerged regarding who should be recognized as the "Father of Hastings," with contenders including Wellwood, Russell, and Tanner. The initial councillors appointed were Russell, Tanner, C Doney, T Foreman, and F D Luckie—Wellwood was not among them initially. However, in the subsequent election, Wellwood filled Russell’s seat after Russell won election to the parliament. Alongside Wellwood, J N Williams and future mayor George Ellis also joined the council.