The early death of her father, Christopher Richmond, caused financial strife for the family.
At the age of 28, Maria and her family left for New Zealand along with the Hursthouses, Richmonds, and Ronalds.
She promoted women's suffrage, campaigned for a girl's college and ran a debate team.
[4] The Atkinsons allowed the newly opened Nelson College for Girls faculty to use their home, Fairfield House.
[5] In 1855 Maria climbed Mount Taranaki as part of a party including her husband.