PHILIPS, PHILIP AARON (1831-1913) was the son of Saul Charles Philips (1793-1882, who died in Auckland). He was born at Brighton and at the age of 14 went into the office of a wholesale firm in London. In 1848 he came to New Zealand and settled in Auckland. After working in employment for a year, he started as an ironmonger and hardware merchant in Vulcan lane. In 1851 he married Annie Myers (d. 1888).

For a quarter of a century Philips did fairly well in business. He took an active interest also in public affairs. He was chairman of the city board of commissioners 1869-71, and succeeded in introducing the municipal corporations act of 1867, under which he became the first mayor of the city. He was also elected in 1870 to the Provincial Council for Auckland East, which he represented until his resignation in 1875. He was most active during this time in legislation for the benefit of the city, which resulted in securing rich endowments and reserves. He was chairman also of the city improvement commissioners, and did much to amalgamate Ponsonby, Karangahape and Grafton road in the city. He also assisted in the establishment of a free library. He was the representative of the Provincial Council on the education board, a member of the harbour board and president of the Mechanics' Institute. He took an active part in obtaining a market, and a water supply for the city. In 1870 he was appointed a justice of the peace, and he also acted as resident magistrate. Meanwhile Philips's business suffered from the depression following the Waikato war and after being mayor (1871-74) he retired and was appointed town clerk, a position he filled with great success till 1899. He was a prominent freemason and was one of the leaders of the Jewish community and an early president. Philips died on 3 Jun 1913.

Cycl. N.Z., ii (p); N.Z. Jewish Review, 1931; N.Z. Herald, 28 May 1881, 9 Jun 1913; Auckland Star, 9 Jun 1913.

Reference: Volume 2, page 85

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