Canterbury Association settlers arrive at Lyttelton

Background. The Canterbury Association was formed in England in 1848 by parliamentarians, peers, and Anglican leaders to establish a colony in New Zealand. The settlement was to be called Canterbury, and the seat of the settlement was to be known as Christchurch. Organised emigration began in 1850, with preparations for surveying and accommodation undertaken under Captain Joseph Thomas. Lyttelton was proclaimed a port in August 1849, serving as the gateway for these colonial settlers.

Arrival. The first ships of settlers arrived in Lyttelton Harbour on 16 December 1850. The Charlotte Jane and Randolph landed on this date, followed by Sir George Seymour the next day and Cressy on 27 December. These vessels, having sailed from England in September, carried the first 'Canterbury Pilgrims.' Preparations were advanced but incomplete when the settlers arrived.

Settlement. Before the settlers arrived, Lyttelton had 60 buildings and a population of around 300, including a jetty and immigration barracks ordered by Thomas; the town's first jetty was built by the shipwright John Grubb. The town was separated from Christchurch by the Port Hills. The name Lyttelton was formalised in 1858 in honour of George Lyttelton, 4th Baron Lyttelton, who led the Association.