.jpg)
The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Taranaki, Hawke's Bay & Wellington Provincial Districts]
Mr. George Tate
Mr. George Tate, who was one of Taranaki's early pioneers, was born in Yorkshire, England, was brought up to agriculture, and became foreman on a large farm. He came to New Plymouth in the ship “Phoebe Dunbar,” in 1850, and soon became engaged in farming at Waitara. At the time of the native disturbance Mr. Tate joined the commissariat and transport department, for which he was employed in buying working bullocks, and he was present at several engagements with the rebels. To his popularity with the settlers and natives was due the fact that, although the natives burnt all the settlers' houses, Mr Tate's property was left untouched. His farm of 400 acres consisted of some of the finest land in the district. Having had an extensive experience in farming, and as a breeder of Lincoln and other sheep, his advice was much sought after by his fellow- page 124 settlers. Whilst still a hale man, Mr. Tate retired from the active work of his farm, and enjoyed the evening of his well spent life in a comfortable cottage on the banks of the Waitara river.