The Explorer and Artist of Early New Zealand
Charles Heaphy was an English-born explorer, surveyor, and artist who played a significant role in the colonial period of New Zealand. Born in London, United Kingdom, he was trained in painting by his father, a professional painter, and later attended the Royal Academy school of painting. In 1839, he joined the New Zealand Company as a draughtsman, traveling to New Zealand to create a visual record of the company's work. His sketches and watercolours were used to advertise the land to potential migrants in England, often depicting landscapes, flora, fauna, and Māori people, including the rangatira Te Rauparaha. His artistic output included views of Wellington Harbour and the landscapes of the Taranaki Region.
A Life of Service and Gallantry
Beyond his artistic pursuits, Heaphy had a distinguished career in surveying and military service. He served as a surveyor in Auckland and later as the provincial surveyor. During the invasion of the Waikato, he served as an officer in the Auckland Rifle Volunteers. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his gallantry at the Mangapiko Stream, where he assisted wounded soldiers under fire. His later life included roles as a Member of Parliament for Parnell and various civil service positions, such as Commissioner of Native Reserves and a judge of the Native Land Court. He eventually moved to Brisbane, Australia, where he died.
![Nga Hiwi Of Roro...[?] — Charles Heaphy](/media/artworks/images-thumb/63/9c/639c7dbf88290029ebc08e76369c0202.jpg)
![Untitled. [island With Ship] — Charles Heaphy](/media/artworks/images-thumb/38/cd/38cda1ec74f87281b11d3b52af80e149.jpg)
![Kari Mako [korimako] Mahurangi N.z. — Charles Heaphy](/media/artworks/images-thumb/6a/6d/6a6d0bc463db621e007f21fd931fa82a.jpg)
![Pipi Wau Rau Roa [pipiwharauroa] Cuckoo N.z. — Charles Heaphy](/media/artworks/images-thumb/ca/07/ca07112e86c4c599dfa95288e07cf2f4.jpg)
![[view Of Hills With Sea And Ship In Foreground] — Charles Heaphy](/media/artworks/images-thumb/69/61/6961573555702d9da7c36ec7601c2425.jpg)
