PEACOCK, THOMAS (1837-1922), who was born in Glasgow, was trained as an optician and maker of mathematical instruments. In 1862 he came to New Zealand and settled in Auckland. He was elected to the City Council, and was mayor of the City (1878-79). In 1881 he entered the House of Representatives, and was member for Auckland North (1881-84), for Newton (1884-87) and for Ponsonby (1887-90). He then retired. In 1887 Peacock declined a portfolio in the Stout-Vogel ministry. He was chairman of the South British Insurance Co.; a vice-president of the Auckland Savings Bank, and a member of the Auckland Grammar School board, the education board, and the council of the chamber of commerce. His second wife (whom he married in 1881), was Margaret, eldest daughter of Alexander Campbell, of Helensburgh, Scotland. He died on 18 Feb 1922.

N.Z.P.D., 29 Jun 1922; Cycl. N.Z., ii (p); Auckland Star, 27 Sep 1887; N.Z. Herald, 19 Feb 1922. Portrait: Parliament House.

Reference: Volume 2, page 81

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