Background
Johnston was born in Ayrshire south-west Scotland in 1809. He travelled with his wife, their two sons Walter Woods and Sydney and their daughter Agnes Mary who was born during the journey.
Johnston was born in Ayrshire south-west Scotland in 1809. He travelled with his wife, their two sons Walter Woods and Sydney and their daughter Agnes Mary who was born during the journey.
He arrived with his family in Wellington from London via Nelson on 3 January 1843 on the Prince of Wales. Walter Woods Johnston who, like his father, was an ex-Minister, and the Honorary His residence was in Fitzherbert Terrace Thorndon.
He first represented the Wellington Country electorate, and since 1865 he was a member for Karori and Makara.
Johnston was appointed to the Legislative Council on 31 March 1857 and served until 6 November 1860, when his membership lapsed through absence. He was reappointed on 11 March 1861 and remained a member for the rest of his life.
Johnston was prominent as a legislator for many years. Henrietta Johnston died on 23 February 1878.
He died on 16 November 1887 at Wellington, aged 76 years, and was buried three days later.
At his death, his property was estimated to be worth £1,000,000.
Johnston was a member of the Wellington Provincial Council between December 1855 and April 1872. At various times (1858, 1861–1862, 1868), he was a member of the Wellington Executive Council. Johnston was a member of the Executive Council in the Stafford Ministry, from 14 May 1866 until 5 April 1867.