J. D. Finlayson, Leader In Public Affairs; Rugby

Northern Advocate, 23 October 1945, Page 4

J. D. Finlayson, Leader In Public Affairs; Rugby

OBITUARY

With the passing of Mr John Donald Finlayson. on Saturday, Waipu loses one of its most prominent and enterprising public men. His death occurred in the Whangarei Public Hospital after a short illness. Mr Finlayson was born in Waipu 52 years ago, the eldest son of Mr J. J. Finlayson, who was the first , white boy born in that settlement. When the last war broke out, he joined the Auckland Mounted Rifles, serving for four years. His forte in sport was Rugby, and until the time of his death he did all that was in his power to foster the game in the district. He represented Olarnatea for many years and was actively participating until 45 years of age, later being president of the Otamatea .Rugby Union. When the Springboks toured New Zealand in 1937 Mr Finalyson managed the North Auckland team which came close to defeating the South African “invincibles.” Shortly after the last war, Mr Finlayson came north to Purua, where he farmed for about eight years. After that he took up “Braemar” in Waipu, which he farmed until his fatal illness. A practical farmer, he also interested himself in the welfare of the man on the land, being past president of the A. and P. Association and a member of the Primary Production Council.

Of Scottish descent, he was naturally prominent in Caledonian affairs, retiring from the presidency of the Waipu Caledonian Society about a month ago. Mr Finlayson was also past president of the North Auckland Piping and Dancing Association, being largely instrumental in the forming of that body.

He was a past president of the Waipu R.S.A., which, more than anyone, he whs responsible for inaugurating in Waipu. When New Zealand was threatened. Mr Finlayson volunteered to play an active role and was commissioned as a lieutenant in the Home Guard.

He is survived by his wife and a daughter, Miss Fiona Finlayson, and son, Mr John Finlayson, of Waipu. The burial took place in the Waipu cemetery, after a well-attended service in the Presbyterian Church.