POLAND, HUGH (1868-1938), a son of John Poland, was born in Tuakau, and attended the Tuakau school and Auckland Grammar School. He was a prominent amateur athlete, and between 1887 and 1894 represented Auckland several times in Rugby football. After teaching for two years, he was engaged in flax milling in Helensville, in storekeeping in Rotorua and Paeroa, and eventually in Paeroa. He was a member of the Ohinemuri County Council (1898-1908) and chairman (1901-05). In 1908 he defeated E. G. B. Moss for the Ohinemuri seat in the House of Representatives. Until he was defeated by A. M. Samuel in 1925, Poland held the seat as the 'miners' advocate'. For over 30 years he was secretary of the Ohinemuri Jockey Club. He died on 3 Jan 1938.

N.Z.P.D., 1 Mar 1938; Cycl. N.Z., ii (p); Who's Who N.Z., 1908, 1924, 1932; N.Z. Herald, 4 Jan 1938; Zealandia, 20 Jan 1938. Portrait: Parliament House.

Reference: Volume 2, page 89

🌳 Further sources