New Zealand's first general anaesthetic

The administration of New Zealand's first general anaesthetic took place at the Colonial Gaol, Wellington, on the morning of Monday, September 27th, 1847. The agent used was sulphuric ether which was administered by Mr. Marriot, the manufacturer of the Herapath-type inhaler used on this occasion. The operation, a dental extraction, was performed by the Colonial Surgeon, Dr. J. P. Fitzgerald.