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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Otago & Southland Provincial Districts]

The Introduction Of Methodism

The Introduction Of Methodism into Otago dates back to 1840. The Rev. James Watkin had been appointed to Otaki in January, but hearing that the Rev. Octavius Hadfield (afterwards Bishop Hadfield) had occupied that place, he did not leave Sydney. The late Mr. John Jones then suggested that Mr. Watkin should be sent to Waikouaiti and offered a free passage, which was accepted. Accordingly Mr. Watkin arrived in New Zealand on the 16th of May, 1840, and began a mission to the Maoris of the southern parts of the colony. He laboured successfully in this pioneer work for four years, during which he baptised 317 persons scattered from Port Levy to Ruapuke. He then removed to Wellington. The Rev. Charles Creed, who followed in 1844, did good work among the natives for nine years. He welcomed the first settlers on their arrival in the “John Wickliffe” and “Phillip Laing, and witnessed the birth and rise of the settlement. The Rev. W. Kirk and Rev. G. Stannard, who followed Mr. Creed, worked diligently among the Maoris, and also preached to the Europeans. In 1859 Mr. Stannaru was removed from Otago, and as the organisation was straitened for funds, Methodism languished for a time. However, the discovery of gold brought a considerable accession to the ranks of the Methodists, and public services were held in the Oddfellows' Hall, and afterwards over a baker's shop in Pelichet Bay. A site having been presented in Dowling Street, a church was erected, and opened in July, 1862, with the Rev. Isaac Harding as its minister. He laid the broad foundation of Methodism in the settlement, and embraced in his circuit the whole of Otago. During more recent years there has been a rapid advancement of the cause. The district of Otago now comprises fourteen circuits and five Home Mission stations, with thirty-three churches, and fifty-seven other preaching stations. These are served by fifteen ministers and five home missionaries, aided by fifty-five local preachers. There are also thirty-one Sunday schools, with 265 teachers, and 2,098 scholars. The total number of adherents is 9,995.