BATHGATE, John 1809–1896

Born Edinburgh and educated there: practised as a solicitor and was a banker in Peebles. Arrived in Dunedin 1863, became the manager of the Bank of Otago, then a newspaper editor 1868. From 1871–74 was a Member of Parliament and on the Otago Provincial Council. In 1874 resigned to accept an appointment as a District Judge. In 1875, with his friend the poet Thomas Bracken, founded the Saturday Advertiser. In 1880 resigned as judge and visited England. In 1882 became Member of the Legislative Council. Published his Illustrated Guide to Dunedin and the Province in 1863. Painted and collected paintings. Exhibited with OAS 1876–82; NZ Ex. Dunedin 1865.