Wellington Supersedes Britannia.

The name of Wellington before the town was moved from Petone to its present site was Britannia. The following from the “New Zealand Gazette and Wellington Spectator” of November 28th, 1840, explains why the change was made: “The directors of the New Zealand Company always contemplated calling the town of their principal settlement after the illustrious warrior of modern times. This intention was entertained in gratitude for his having given life to the great principle of colonization, which they are extending to the best of their abilities, by advocating the enactment of the South Australian Bill. Had a proper spirit animated those in power, Adelaide would have enjoyed a name which must live through all the ages, but they sought profit by pleasing the King rather than honour by paying an honest debt.” Adelaide, of course, was named after Queen Adelaide, consort of William IV.

In view of this enthusiasm for the name Wellington, it is rather amusing to find that the same journal only a few months previously had highly commended Britannia as “a good name because till now unappropriated by any town and therefore distinctive in its character.”

Wanganui was first named Petre, after Lord Petre, one of the directors of the New Zealand Company. The name was officially proclaimed in November, 1842, but it did not appeal, and in 1854 it was changed to the more melodious Maori name.

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