NEWMAN, ALFRED KINGCOME (1849-1924) was born in India. His father, Captain Alfred Newman (1816-82), H.E.I.C.S., who served under Sir Charles Napier, came to New Zealand in 1853, purchased an estate near Waipukurau, and was a member of the Ahuriri Settlers' Association (1854) and of the Napier harbour board.

Newman was educated at private schools in New Zealand and in Bath, England (1863) and studied medicine at Guy's Hospital, London, and Aberdeen University (M.B., C.M., 1875; M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P.). Returning to New Zealand (1875), he engaged in commerce as a partner in the firm of Zohrab, Newman and Co., general merchants. In 1879 he married Octavia, daughter of Dr I. E. Featherston (q.v.). He unsuccessfully contested the Foxton seat in 1881, and was elected to the House of Representatives as member for Thorndon in 1884, holding the seat until 1890. He subsequently represented Hutt (1890-93), Wellington Suburbs (1893-96) and Wellington East (1911-22). He served on the Wellington City Council (1881-85), the education board, the Wellington College board of governors, the Agricultural and Pastoral association, the University senate, and several athletic bodies, particularly the N.Z. Rugby Union (of which he was president). From 1922 until his death (on 3 Apr 1924) Newman was a member of the Legislative Council.

N.Z.P.D., 1 Jul 1924; Who's Who N.Z., 1908, 1924; Cycl. N.Z., i (p)

Reference: Volume 2, page 62

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