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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Wellington Provincial District]

Lawrence, William

Lawrence, William, Sawmiller, Ohau Sawmills, Ohau, near Manakau. Telegraphic address, “Lawrence, Manakau, Manawatu.” Bankers, Bank of New South Wales. Established as a sawmiller thirty years ago, Mr. Lawrence claims to be the oldest still actively engaged in the work in the Wellington Provincial District. He also lays claim to having been the first pioneer in the sawmilling industry in Queen Charlotte Sound, as he cut the first timber, for which a circular saw was used, in August, 1861 Mr. Lawerence started as circular benchman at the Upper Hutt in February, 1859, continuing as such till 1865, when he started the Mungaroa Mill, near the Upper Hutt, which he conducted for many years. Subsequently for twelve years no carried on business in the Wairarapa, and for about three years afterwards was at Pakaratahi, near Kaitoke, before starting the Ohau mills in 1893. The Ohau mill is modern in every respect, all the latest appliances being included, such as breaking-down, frame, and circular saws. A fine steam-engine of eight-horse-power was specially imported by Mr. Lawrence for the mill. A staff of about a dozen hands is employed, the product of the works being very considerable. The specialty is red pine, which finds a ready market in and near the Empire City. The subject of this notice was born in London, and came to New Zealand in 1857, per ship “Southern Cross,” landing in Wellington.

Saint, H., Butcher, Ohau.