JOHNSTON, JOHN (1809-87), who claimed descent from the Johnstons of Annandale, was in business in London before leaving for New Zealand with his wife and young family by the Prince of Wales in 1841. He entered into business in Wellington, and soon established the wholesale house of Johnston and Co.

Johnston evinced an early interest in public affairs. He spoke at the Reform banquet (1849), and was a member of the Settlers' Constitutional Association the following year. He represented the Wellington Country district in the Provincial Council (1855-59, 1861-65) and sat for Karori and Makara (in which district he made his home) 1865-72. In 1858, 1861, and 1868 he was a member of the executive. Johnston was called in 1857 to the Legislative Council and, with the exception of a year when he was absent, he sat continuously until his death. Though never a prominent politician, he was for a few weeks in 1866 a member of Stafford's executive. He paid close attention to his business, from which he retired in 1878, leaving it to his two sons, Walter and Charles (q.v.). He was a broad-minded and large-hearted citizen, and one of the earliest freemasons in the colony.

Johnston died on 16 Nov 1887.

Wellington P.C. Proc.; Cycl. N.Z., i; Ward; N.Z. Times, 17 Nov 1887; Evening Post, 10 Oct 1929 (p). Portrait: Parliament House.

Reference: Volume 1, page 237

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