Thomas Gore Browne

New Zealand politician

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June 22, 2026

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Thomas Gore Browne served as the governor of New Zealand from 1855 to 1861. During his tenure, he reserved Māori affairs for the governor's control, a decision that contributed to escalating tensions between settlers and Māori. Browne's administration was marked by a significant land dispute in Taranaki, where he accepted a land sale offer from a sub-chief, disregarding the veto of the paramount chief Wiremu Kīngi. This action, in 1860, ignited the First Taranaki War, marking the beginning of a decade of conflict between Māori and colonial forces.12

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New Zealand
Ethnic conflict
Gore Browne was guided in native policy by the head of the Native Land Purchase Department, Donald (later Sir Donald) McLean, who, responsive to settler demands, increased pressure on potential sellers. Grey’s caution and his recognition that a chief could veto sales proposed by any…
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Gore Browne was guided in native policy by the head of the Native Land Purchase Department, Donald (later Sir Donald) McLean, who, responsive to settler demands, increased pressure on potential sellers. Grey’s caution and his recognition that a chief could veto sales proposed by any…
Read More