HURST, WILLIAM JOHN (?-1886) was born in England. He settled in Auckland in the early sixties, and was a conspicuous figure in politics for the remainder of his life. In 1868 he was elected to the Provincial Council for Auckland East, which he represented until 1875. In 1870 he moved the resolution which unseated the executive, and he was a member of the incoming government without portfolio but later he accepted the treasurership, which he held for three years. In 1871 he was elected to the Auckland City Council, and in 1876-77 he was mayor of Auckland. He was also a member of the education board. In 1879 Hurst was elected to Parliament for Auckland City West, which he represented till 1881, and from that date until his death he was member for Waitemata. He was one of the four Auckland Liberals who supported the Hall ministry. He was a fine debater, an active thinker and a good business man, and was much interested in agricultural matters. He died in England on 29 Sep 1886.

Cycl. NZ, ii; Morton; Auckland Star, 8 Oct, 15 Nov 1886. Portrait: Parliament House; Barr.

Reference: Volume 1, page 228

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