HARDING, JOHN (1820-99) was born at Southampton, England, and brought up to the trade of a turner. He came to New Zealand in the Birman (1842), and worked in Wellington at his trade for some years and later as an ironmonger. He was one of the founders of the order of Rechabites in New Zealand (1842), and with Francis Bradey organised the anniversary celebrations in 1843 and subsequent years. About 1850 Harding acquired land in Hawkes Bay and made his homestead at Mount Vernon, Waipukurau. About 1876 he established his Romney flock with sheep purchased from Alfred Ludlam (q.v.). Later he bred also Clydesdale horses. Harding served on several local bodies. He died on 25 Jun 1899.

Ward; Playne; Cycl. NZ., vi (p); Hawkes Bay Herald, 26 Jun 1899.

Reference: Volume 1, page 195

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