McVAY, JOHN COMMONS (1844-1914) was born in Auckland, where his father arrived from New South Wales in 1841, and was educated at Gorrie's academy. Having served an apprenticeship as a saddler, he took charge of a business in Napier (1869) and started on his own account in 1873. He married (1871) Miss Craig (Belfast). McVay was a member of the Napier borough council for 20 years and mayor 1901-02; a member (and chairman) of the harbour board; a member of the charitable aid board, of the first school committee and the High School board of governors and a trustee of the children's home. He was a founder and president of the Hawke's Bay Racing club and a member of the Hawke's Bay racing commission. He was a director of the Napier Gas Co. and Blyth's Ltd. He died on 10 May 1914.

Cycl. N.Z., vi; Hawke's Bay Herald, 11 May 1914.

Reference: Volume 2, page 25

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