Pioneer in Britain and NZ of the oral method of teaching the deaf, now known as lip reading. Taught initially in Rotterdam, then Manchester.
Sailed to NZ on "Scottish Prince" in 1879 to take up position as Director of the School for Deaf at Sumner. On March 18th 1880 the school began with 18 pupils.
Sponsored Dutch artist van der Velden who came to NZ in 1890 and lived with Gerritt at Sumner. Travelled to Europe, died of a heart attack in London in 1908 aged 72 years.
daughter of C. Drury of Sunderland Wales.
Born in ChCh, attended Boys High. Fought in Infantry in World War I. Lived at Diamond Harbour, before buying a farm at Hoon Hay. Established new dairy farming methods.
Born in Wanganui. Educated at Napier Boys High School (Head Prefect). Read Law at Canterbury University, and joined law firm Helmore, van Asch and Walton. During World War II, he served in the 23rd battalion, rose to captain, wounded at Battle of Casino, Italy. Established Hohepa homes in Canterbury with his wife, Cynthia.