McDONAGH, ARTHUR EDWARD (1811-52) held a junior commission in the 5th Fusiliers. He was appointed police magistrate at Hokianga in 1841, and two years later was transferred to the southern district of New Munster as assistant magistrate and treasurer. As magistrate he inquired into the affray at Wairau (1843), and issued a proclamation in Wellington affirming that the attack was not premeditated, that the Maori did everything possible to avoid a collision, and that no apprehension need be entertained of an attack on Port Nicholson. As adjutant of the Wellington militia McDonagh commanded the force which advanced to Pauatahanui and was present at Battle Hill on 6 Aug 1846. He afterwards had charge of the European and native workers making the road to Porirua. He was a justice of the peace for New Munster (1848). McDonagh married (1844) Ann Eliza, daughter of H. Ross. He died on 26 Nov 1852, when he was police inspector for the southern district.

Grimstone; Cowan; Ward; N.Z. Spectator, 27 Nov 1852.

Reference: Volume 2, page 6

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