A Kindly Christian GentlemanWilliam Garden Cowie, Bishop of Auckland 1869 -1902By Frank WrightSignedWilliam Garden Cowie was the first Bishop of Auckland in what is now known as the Anglican tradition. He was bishop from 1869 until his death in 1902. Cowie was the successor to Bishop Selwyn and he was in fact Selwyn's choice as the Auckland synod had delegated the appointment of his successor to Selwyn himself . William Cowie read Classics at Cambridge and after ordination spent time as an Indian Army chaplain, an experience which he never forgot. He came to New Zealand from an English parish and established a reputation for devoted pastoral ministry. He travelled constantly and arduously in the primitive conditions of the time. Remote groups welcomed his visits and his friendly manner. It was said that he made no enemies. Cowie was a capable administrator and many present day institutions within the church owe their origin to him or his wife Eliza. Bishop Cowie was very much a part of the early history of Auckland and his influence extended well beyond the confines of his church. Among other foundations the Institute for the Blind (now known as The Foundation of the Blind) owes its origins to his efforts. This is an interesting account of Bishop Cowie's life and work.