Thomas Halbert


Thomas Halbert was a New Zealand whaler, trader and founding father. He was born in Newcastle upon Tyne, Northumberland, England and baptised on 25 December 1814 in Gateshead, Durham, England.

Early life

Thomas was the son of William Halbert and Sarah 1771-1814. William and Sarah Halbert had at least 11 children:
  • Sarah Halbert died 1795
  • William Halbert born 1792
  • Alice Halbert born 1794
  • John Halbert 1796-1854
  • Sarah Halbert born 1798
  • Elizabeth Halbert born 1799
  • George Potts Halbert 1802-1851
  • Joseph Halbert 1803-1838
  • Elizabeth Halbert 1804-1807
  • Mary Ann Halbert 1805-1806
  • Thomas Halbert 1806-1865
Little is known about Thomas before his emigration to New Zealand. Upon emigrating to New Zealand he would marry six times. His wives included:

Wives & children

His children were:

With his first wife

  • unknown son who died at infancy.

With Pirihira Konekone, his second wife

With Mereana Wero, his third wife

With Riria Mauaranui, his fourth wife

With Kaikiri, his fifth wife

With Maora Pani, his sixth wife

  • Alice Matewai Halbert married Karepa Mataira.
  • Twins who died at infancy
  • Thomas Halbert Jr married Ripeka Matahaere Brown.

Notable descendants

Some of descendants include:

Death

Halbert died 12 April 1865 when he was crossing the Taruheru River and became stuck in the mud. He drowned as the tide came back in and was buried at Makaraka Cemetery. A street in Makaraka is named for him.