The Manawatu Times began publication 23 October 1875 in a small office in Main Street West, opposite the end of George Street. It was established by Joseph Poulter Leary and George Bond (who died after the first edition was published). Front Row: Fred Pirani, foreman,; W.H. Smith, Editor and proprietor; Ashton Kay, Shorthand reporter; Charker, junior and printers' devil. Back Row: Hammer; Sydney Watson, reporter; Henry Nash, reporter; Charker, senior reporter and Tom Mitchell.