ANNABELL, John 1846–1919

Born Derby, England: arrived in New Zealand 1860 and served in New Zealand Constabulary Forces 1871–74. Joined the Survey Dept. and became Assistant Surveyor, Hawkes Bay 1875–77. A ‘J. Annabell’ was listed as a Hastings artist 1880–84 Wise's. At some time after 1877 John Annabell was stationed in the Wellington district, in 1887 promoted to District Surveyor. Held this position until 1890, when he left and began private practice in Wanganui acting as Consulting Engineer to several local bodies between Patea and Marton. F. W. Furket writes that Annabell was the last man to record having seen the North Island thrush, in September 1900.