Ohinemuri Regional History Journal 20, June 1976
In 1898 Mr. Horatio Agars Walmsley petitioned Parliament seeking a title in fee simple or a lease in perpetuity for certain section of land which he had held under lease for the past 21 years, but which had now lapsed. The Goldfields and Mining committee recommended that a surface title only under Sec. 121 of Land Act 1892 be granted. This must be one of the oldest leases (1877) issued in the district. Walmsley was the earliest contractor for the supply of mining timber and firewood to the Waihi Company. His timber cutting rights were on the Eastern side of Walmsley Creek beyond the Borough boundary towards the present reservoir.