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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

Mr. William James Courtney

Mr. William James Courtney, who sat for Ponsonby from 1892 to 1900 was born near Limerick, in the South of Ireland, in 1835. Educated in the land of his birth, Mr. Courtney was brought up as a chemist, and passed his examination as a veterinary surgeon. He left the Emerald Isle in 1858 for Australia, and was for two years after arrival engaged in mining throughout that continent. In 1860, having heard of the gold discoveries in New Zealand, he decided to try his “luck” in that direction, and was for some years engaged in mining on the most important fields of this Colony. Mr. Courtney salled in 1870 for South Africa, where he was engaged on the diamond fields for nineteen years with considerable success. Having won a competence, he decided to return to New Zealand and settle down, making Auckland his home. He bought the beautifully situated and picturesque property of four acres at “Courtney Place,” Ponsonby, where he has what is claimed to be the finest vinery under glass in the Colony. His residence is surrounded by a well-kept flower garden and drives, the approach to the house being dotted here and there with a number of statues. Mr. Courtney takes a great interest in his grounds, and prides himself on the quality of the grapes he grows. During the past twenty years he has made several trips round the world, and has visited every important exhibition held during that time, including the Paris and the Chicago Exhibitions. Every four years he takes a trip to Africa to look after his interests in that country. Since his retirement from business life, Mr. Courtney has been asked on several occasions to stand for parliament, but has so far declined. He has a lofty idea of the responsibility of a representative of the people, and would consent to enter the parliamentary arena only on the conditions that, if elected, he should act independently of anyone else, and that he must first be convinced that the step would be for the country's good. Mr. Courtney had no previous thought of entering the City Council, but was unable to refuse the large and influential deputation which ultimately prevailed upon him to stand. After serving for three years he wished to retire into private life, but his friends and the ratepayers generally requisitioned him to again contest the seat. He acceded to the request, and, though he took no active part in the election owing to illness, was returned then, and also on a subsequent occasion. Mr. Courtney is esteemed both by his friends and the general public for the ability, shrewdness and business capacity which he has exhibited during his career in the council. Mr. Courtney is married and has three children.