SHEPHERD, JAMES (1796-1882) was born at Sydney, the son of a pious, hardworking colonist, who was deeply interested in missions. The son also evinced an interest in evangelism, and attracted the attention of Marsden. When quite young he entered on a mission schooner to study navigation, and Marsden gave him an opportunity of visiting New Zealand to become acquainted with the Maori (1817). In pursuance of his policy of manning the mission with artisan-catechists, Marsden early in 1820 sent Shepherd to Bay of Islands, primarily to satisfy the urgent desire of Te Morenga to have a missionary in his territory, but also to introduce systematically the arts of agriculture and gardening, in both of which Shepherd was expert. Though wanting in education, Shepherd was a man of high natural abilities, in whom Marsden always had complete confidence. His letter of instruction, urging him to travel much amongst the tribes, to plant wheat, barley, maize and other cereals; to devote his attention to the culture and preparation of phormium tenax, and to encourage the Maori to bring forward their produce for market, is an important document in the history of the period. On his next visit (1823) Marsden was fully satisfied with the fruits of Shepherd's work at Okura, west of Kerikeri, and with his competent command of the language. Marsden had intended settling the Rev Henry Williams at Whangaroa, with Shepherd to help him, but unexpected changes led him to keep Williams at Paihia, and he proceeded with Shepherd and others to purchase a site for the Wesleyan mission under Leigh. After visiting Whangarei they went north to Whangaroa, and chose the site at Kaeo, where Leigh had started work (Jun 1823) with Shepherd as his assistant. On the removal of Leigh through illness (Aug 1823) Shepherd was withdrawn and stationed at Te Puna with King. He continued his work there, teaching at the station and travelling amongst the tribes instructing them in agriculture and the Christian religion. In 1830 they had 400 souls within an hour's walk and 1,000 whom they visited.

In 1833 he was at Te Puna, and afterwards at Paihia, where he translated some hymns into Maori and assisted the Rev William Williams in the translation of the first complete New Testament (published 1837). In 1840 Shepherd went to Whangaroa, where he erected a dwelling and place of worship and laboured for 37 years. He was never ordained, but was an exemplary Christian teacher. In 1877 his wife (nee Nelson) whom he had married in Sydney in 1823, died. Shepherd's death occurred on 1 Oct 1882.

Marsden, L. and J., and Lieutenants; Ramsden; Barton; N.Z. Herald, 14 Oct 1882.

Reference: Volume 2, page 151

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