DEATH OF SIR JOHN M'KEKZIE.

Gisborne Times, Volume VI, Issue 180, 7 August 1901, Page 2

DEATH OF SIR JOHN M'KEKZIE.

PASSED AWAY LAST NIGHT.

[By Telegraph—Pres3 Association.] Dunedin, last night. Sir John McKenzie, late Minister ol Lands, died at half-past seven to-night.

HOW THE NEWS WAS RECEIVED IN AVELLINGTON.

(Special to Times.) AVellington, last night. A gloom was thrown over the House of Representatives when the sad news was announced of the death of Sir John McKenzie. The Premier’s voice was deep with emotion when he delivered the message of the death of the old comrade with whom he had fought many political battles, and who was esteemed by all. The House was adjourned as a mark of respect. A great many Ministers and members will attend the funeral.

Sir John McKenzie was born in Ardross, Rossbire, Scotland, in 1838. After leaving school he worked on his father’s farm. He arrived at Otago, New Zealand, in 18G0, and found employment on the Puketapu station, near Palmerston South. He rose to the position of manager, and later on took up a farm of his own at Shag Valley. His first entry to public life was as clerk to the Bushey Road Board and Secretary of the School Committe. In 1868 ho unsuccessfully contested the Waikouaiti seat in the Provincial Council, being defeated by Mr George McLean. In 1871 he was elected a member of the Council. In 1832 he was elected first Chairman of the AVaihemo County Council. In 1881 he was elected to the House of Representatives. He first held office in 1890, when Air Ballance offered him the portfolio of Lands, which ho filled with such credit to the colony. He was an honest, fearless, and outspoken statesman. His public career was cut off by ill health, and his death was not unexpected.