Katikati in 1875 by Ellen Mc Cormack

After numerous negotiations and problems George Vesey Stewart's application for land was finally approved. To comply with his part of the agreement the complement of 30 families was more than filled by the end of May. 

8 June 1875: The Carisbrooke Castle sails with 34 families making a total of 238 persons for Katikati. On board are George Vesey Stewart, his wife Margaret and family of nine children. Margaret was described as a woman of exceptional cleverness and charm.

The Dover Castle also sailed with settlers for Katikati and arrived a few days before the Carisbrooke Castle.

8 September 1875: The Carisbrooke Castle arrives in Auckland. Those on board are treated to a grand reception held by the Mayor and town celebrities. After a few days in Auckland the settlers were transferred to the Rowena and sailed for Tauranga.

A ballot was held for the land and the settlers made their own way to Katikati.

Prior to the arrival of the settlers George Vesey Stewart had arranged with Peter Grant a roadman employed by the Tauranga County Council to build 36 whares for the settlers at a cost of ten pound each. Twelve were built on the banks of the river at Aongatete, Uretara and Tuapiro.

Within a very short time George Vesey Stewart was negotiating for a further 10,000 acres on the western side of Katikati [nearer to the Kaimai range].

15 December 1875: Bay of Plenty Times [Advertisement.]

Regular Direct Communication to Katikati.

THE New and Fast Sailing Cutter.

“KAREWA”

Captain Cinnamon will in future Leave Tauranga for Katikati every MONDAY,

Returning Every TUESDAY [wind and weather permitting,] carrying passengers and cargo.

Fare, 5 shillings. Cargo, 7 shillings and six pence per ton.

W.M.COMMONS.

Agent.