Hi Cazay

Yes, thanks, ... I have the info on "Thomas RICHENS" (thug) and have been working feverishly over the past week or so for further details. NOWHERE can I find what this "dude's occupation was ! And that, I think, is the key to sorting him out.
The Otago Police Gazette gives skimpy details of prisoners who were going to trial (NO occupations stated) ! Additionally there are monthly "inmate release" sheets for several prisons and these give more comprehensive info. BUT, having searched gazettes from Oct 1873 to Dec 1874, I have failed (so far) to find the release of Thomas Richens !
(Will keep on the "case" though).
I can place John /"Thomas" RICHINGS at or near Blenheim in 1870, and in 1874 thru 1876. (Perhaps "John" did disappear with his horse and cart to the other end of the South Island in 1873, for a "boys' timeout" type weekend)

Thanks for checking out SANDS ~ mmm ... Chas. Wilkinson, treasury clerk ... not sure he quite fits this "mob" ?
Cheers
Lu
PS: ALSO ... have found an interesting "Charles BLIZZARD" living in the same somewhat remote area as John RICHINGS around 1874. (BLIZZARD was the surname of J.R.'s wife Sarah Ann, found in Gloucester 1861 + ) : Will see if someone on Gloucester board can help with census info - I have a few details of this Charles) :
.... never a dull moment on this thread ... eh ?