THOMPSON, HENRY AUGUSTUS (1815-43), an English barrister-at-law, of the Inner Temple, was recommended by Lord John Russell for an appointment in New Zealand, and came in the Lord Auckland to Nelson, where he was appointed police magistrate for the town and district (2 Feb 1842). He also looked after the native reserves. Thompson was energetic but hot-tempered and eccentric and created difficulties with the colonists. When the survey of Wairau was opposed by Te Rauparaha and Rangihaeata, Thompson issued a warrant for their arrest and accompanied the magistrates and posse to execute it. He met his death in the ensuing affray (17 Jun 1843).

N.Z.C. 31; E. J. Wakefield; Ward; Buick, Old Marlborough

Reference: Volume 2, page 193

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