KING, JOHN (1787-1854) was born at Swerford, Oxfordshire, and brought up as a shoemaker. He was engaged at this trade at Nether Worton, near Banbury, when Samuel Marsden visited England in 1809 in search of artisans to form the first mission to New Zealand. King entered the service of the Church Missionary Society, and took lessons in flax-dressing and twine-spinning with a view to introducing those crafts amongst the Maori. Sailing in the Ann with Marsden, he formed a close friendship with Ruatara (q.v.). King spent some years at Parramatta with Marsden before the opportunity occurred of proceeding to New Zealand. He married Hannah, daughter of Thomas Hansen (q.v.), captain of the Active, and they proceeded to New Zealand in Jan 1815 and settled at Rangihoua, Bay of Islands. King's duty was to act as catechist for the district and teach the people something of agriculture and making lines. His relations with Kendall were not pleasant. In 1819 they visited Hokianga together, being the first whites to do so. King rendered faithful service until his death (on 6 May 1854). Mrs King died on 27 Nov 1851.

Marsden, L. and J., and Lieutenants; Ramsden; Stock; New Zealander (Auckland), 27 May 1854.

Reference: Volume 1, page 250

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