SHERA, JOHN McEFFER (1840-1906) was born at Coote Hill, County Cavan, Ireland, the son of a merchant. After receiving his education at Wesley College, Sheffield, he learned the softgoods business in Londonderry, and then returned to his home town to manage for his father. In 1867 his Londonderry employers (McArthur and Co.) commissioned him to wind up their business in South Australia, after which he established the firm of McArthur, Shera and Co. in Auckland with himself as managing partner (1868). The partnership was dissolved in 1877, but Shera remained in the softgoods business for some time and then became a sharebroker. In 1887 he contested the City West seat and in 1890 he was elected at the head of the poll to represent Auckland City in Parliament (retiring in 1893 when he was defeated). He supported Grey. Shera was a member of the conciliation board for the Auckland district, a commissioner of education reserves, and a trustee of the Auckland Savings Bank. He held a captain's commission in the Auckland Cavalry. Shera married (1873) Jemima, daughter of Colonel Balneavis (q.v.). He died on 19 Sep 1906.

Cycl. N.Z., ii (p); N.Z. Herald, 20 Sep 1906. Portrait: Parliament House.

Reference: Volume 2, page 152

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