SUDDEN DEATH

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXVI, 1 July 1932, Page 6

SUDDEN DEATH

HARBOURMASTER AT LYTTELTON Captain Hunter, whose death at Lyttelton was reported yesterday, was born in Scotland sixty-one year's ago, served his apprenticeship in the barque Niobe, and underwent some severe hardships in sail. He gained his master s certificate at the age of twenty-two. On completing his apprenticeship, lie made several cruises out of Cowes in auxiliary and steam yachts. Later lie joined the Moana at Dumbarton oh that vessel being launched, and he came to New Zealand as ' third mate. He remained in the Union Company’s service, and eventually he was given command of the Pukaki. Other ships of which he had command were the Botoiti, Komataand Maori. After being in command of the Maori for two years, he resigned in 1909 to take up the position of second pilot to the Lyttelton Harbour Board. On the retirement of Captain A. 11. Thorpe, Captain Hunter was appointed harbourmaster in 1922 (reports the “Times”). Both as an officer of the board and as a resident of Lyttelton, Captain Hunter was Tiigbly ’respected, and the announcement 'of his death last evening came as a shock to his many friends. Captain Jlunter v r as a member of the Onehunga Masonic Lodge. Some twentytwo years ago, he helped to form the Lyttelton Golf Club, and for some time be was secretary. At- tho time of his death, lie was a vice-president and a life member of the club. He was also an active member of the Christchurch Golf Club. A keen supporter of Rugby football, it is stated that Captain Hunter had not missed a football match atLancaster Park for several years. It was not generally known that Captain Hunter was most generous to charity, and he also assisted many seamen who were in need.

Captain Hunter married Miss C. Cable, of Wellington. He leaves a widow and three daughters, Misses Margaret, Marjorie and Valerie Hunter. Misses Margaret and Marjorie Hunter are studying at Oxford.