Written by: Penelope Wildwood

Henry Sewell is fondly remembered as the first premier of New Zealand, a title that would later be officially christened as the Prime Minister. This trailblazing politician is renowned for his tireless efforts in campaigning for New Zealand's self-government, a feat that earned him a revered place in the country's history.

Born on September 7, 1807, in Newport, Isle of Wight, England, Sewell was the fourth son of Thomas Sewell, a solicitor, and his wife Jane (née Edwards). He received his education at Hyde Abbey School near Winchester, eventually qualifying as a solicitor and joining his father's law firm in 1826.

However, fate had other plans for Sewell. His father's sudden demise in 1840, following a bank failure that left the family with substantial debt, marked a turning point in his life. The untimely death of his wife, Lucinda, in 1844, further added to his woes. With his sister taking charge of his children and mother, Sewell relocated to London in pursuit of better opportunities. He remarried in 1850 to Elizabeth Kittoe and made plans to emigrate to New Zealand, seeking improved financial prospects in the colony.

Sewell's connection to New Zealand emerged through the Canterbury Association, a British organization dedicated to the colonization of the Canterbury region. As the Association's deputy director, Sewell played a significant role in its activities, working closely with Charles Simeon, brother of John Simeon, who introduced him to the Association.

Sewell's involvement with the Canterbury Association eventually led him to New Zealand, where he arrived in 1853. He became a vocal advocate for self-government, and in 1856, he formed the Sewell Ministry, effectively becoming the country's first premier. This marked a significant milestone in New Zealand's journey towards self-governance.

Sewell continued to serve in various roles, including Colonial Treasurer (1856-1859), Attorney-General (1861-1862), and Minister of Justice (1864-1865, 1869-1872). Despite facing numerous challenges, Sewell remained committed to his cause, leaving an indelible mark on New Zealand's history. He passed away on May 14, 1879, but his legacy lives on, inspiring generations to strive for self-determination and governance.

• Sewell is remembered as one of the pioneers of New Zealand's self-government movement.
• He is celebrated as the country's first premier, a title that would later be officially recognized as the Prime Minister.
• Sewell's contributions to the Canterbury Association played a significant role in the colonization of the Canterbury region.

• "It is the duty of every colony to govern itself, and to be governed by its own people." - Henry Sewell (quoted in the New Zealand Spectator, 1856)

While Sewell's contemporaries, such as Edward Gibbon Wakefield, also played important roles in New Zealand's colonization, Sewell's unwavering commitment to self-government sets him apart as a champion of the people. His pioneering spirit and determination paved the way for future generations of New Zealanders to take charge of their own destiny.