HARKNESS, JOHN (1853-1938) was born in Derbyshire, educated at the Derby school and graduated from Corpus Christi College, Oxford, proceeding M.A. A strong classical scholar, he was appointed to the staff of the Manchester Grammar School. In 1883 he was chosen as the first rector of the Waitaki Boys High School, of which he was in control for fourteen years. Harkness was a man of deep culture and a generous spirit. After resigning from Waitaki, he was for seven years in charge of a private school in Christchurch and later on the staff of the Boys High School. Returning to England about 1911, he resided for the rest of his life at Cheltenham. Harkness married (1889) Miss Satchell, one time matron at the Waitaki High School. He died on 28 Jul 1938.

K. C. McDonald (p); Oamaru Mail, 6, 10 Oct 1938.

Reference: Volume 1, page 196

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