Hall was born in Hull, England, around December 18, 1824. After reading a book on sheepfarming, he emigrated to New Zealand, on "Samarang " — July 31, 1852. He was elected to the Christchurch County district's Provincial Council in 1853. He would later rise through the ranks of magistrate, town council chairman, and postmaster-general.

On October 8, 1879, he was made the premier of New Zealand, although poor health caused him to resign the position less than three years later. During his period as prime minister, he was a staunch proponent of women's rights. He died in Christchurch on June 25, 1907.

External link

• Official website of the Prime Minister of New Zealand