PAKURANGA PIONEER

Sun (Auckland), Volume IV, Issue 941, 7 April 1930, Page 14

PAKURANGA PIONEER

MR. JOHN UDY CELEBRATES 90TH BIRTHDAY EARLY MT. EDEN SETTLER The oldest settler of the Pakuranga district, Mr. John Udy, who is celebrating his ninetieth birthday today, retains vivid memories of the development of the city and province during his 71 years here. A native of St. Breock, Cornwall, Mr. Udy came to New Zealand in the sailing ship Excelsior, landing here on March 16. 1859. For a year he was engaged in farm work at East Tamaki, and was then joined by his father, two brothers, and live sisters. The family rented an S2-acre property known as Edengrove, and commenced dairyfarming on their own account, milking a herd of 60 cows and delivering the supply in Auckland. The house which the family occupied was situated where the Mount Eden tram terminus now stands. The construction of the present road from the mountain side to the tram terminus was superintended by Mr. Udy, who obtained permission from the Government to use scoria from the south side of the mountain for this purpose. Mr. Udy served in the Auckland Cavalry Volunteer Corps, under Captain Hardington, from the outbreak of the Maori war until the cessation of hostilities in 1868. The corps headquarters and stables were situated where John Court, Ltd., now stands. The cavalry had to supply their own horses, equipment, and clothing, while the Government supplied the weapons and pay at the rate of 5s a. day, and os a day horse allowance, but this was only available when the corps was on active service. Purchasing his farm at Pakuranga in 1864, Mr. Udy did not settle there however, until 1871. He took a keen interest in district affairs, and for 12 years served as chairman of the Pakuranga Road Board, which was merged into the Manukau County some 11 years ago. Mrs. Udy, who before her marriage was Miss Robinson, died about .18 years ago. The family comprises Mrs. A. M. Massey and Mr. George Udy. Social functions to mark the occasion are being held today.