Arthur Bignell

[1][2] He was educated at Richmond, Surrey, and emigrated to New Zealand with his brother Fred in 1876, at 15 years of age.

[3] He and Fred made a return trip to England in 1884 to assist the emigration of his parents and siblings to New Zealand.

Upon returning the Bignell firm won the contract to construct bridges and buildings on the Midland Line.

Russell and Bignell Ltd. went on to include within their firm the business and contracts of notable local builder James Tawse upon his retirement.

[7] A street was named after him along the western bank of Wanganui River, just south of the town centre.