Overview
Sir James Hector was internationally renowned as a geologist and explorer who died a hundred years ago this month. He was the first Director of the Colonial Museum and Geological Survey (Te Papa's predecessor) and held this position for almost 40 years. He could be considered the founding father of Te Papa and its partner GNS Science.
From Scotland to New Zealand
Hector was born in Scotland in 1834. Hector arrived in New Zealand in 1862 after exploring western Canada for three years. He first worked in Otago, then came to Wellington in 1865 to run the Colony's Geological Survey and Museum.
Hector was also in charge of many other official scientific bodies. He dedicated himself to identifying natural resources, overseeing scientific research and publishing, and promoting New Zealand at many international exhibitions.
Hector's legacy
Hector was an extremely influential figure and received many honours in his lifetime, including a knighthood in 1887. His legacy continues today. A settlement, a mountain, a lake, a scientific award, and eleven species - including Hector's Dolphin - are all named after him.