Sir Algernon Philips Thomas Withiel was an early advocate for the protection of the tuatara and other native flora and fauna. Thomas was born in Cheshire, England and graduated MA from Oxford University in 1881. In 1882 he discovered the cause of liver rot in sheep, a finding of great scientific and economic importance. He arrived in Auckland in 1883 to take up the position of Professor of Natural Science at University College, which was newly established. As well as teaching, he became a widely acknowledged expert on many scientific matters.
He retired from his professorship in 1913 and became known for producing Auckland’s earliest and best daffodils as well as his work for numerous educational bodies. He was a long serving member of the senate of the University of New Zealand and the Auckland University College Council, and Chairman of the Auckland Grammar School Board.
In 1937 he was appointed a KCMG. Withiel Drive in Epsom is named after him. Algernon Philips Thomas Withiel 1857-1937 is buried in Block E, Row 41, Plot 40B.
Sir Algernon Philips Thomas WITHIEL
Died 1937
Block E, Row 41, Plot 40B
