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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Otago & Southland Provincial Districts]
Mr. John Petchell
Mr. John Petchell was born at Brook House, near Lawghton-en-le Morthen, Yorkshire, and is the eldest surviving son of the late Mr. John Petchell, of Riverton. He arrived in New Zealand in February, 1854, by the ship “Stately.” with his parents, who were pioneer settlers of Otago. Owing to the absence of schools in those days, the subject of this sketch was self-educated. At the time of the Tuapeka “rush,” in 1862, he proceeded to that field on trading ventures. In 1869 he arrived at Riverton and purchased land at Parapourakino in the Longwood district, and afterwards started sawmilling in conjunction with his father and page 934 Messrs Moore Bros., and they supplled large quantities of sleepers for the different sections of railways. He afterwards entered into business as a storekeeper, was elected to the Borough Council, and later on was chosen Mayor of Riverton.