Arthur William Follett Halcombe, an attorney and agent of the Emigrant and Colonist's Aid Corporation for the Manchester block settlement. Originally from London, England, he settled in the Rangitikei in 1855. He served the community in many ways, becoming first a justice of the peace, and then a lieutenant for the Victoria Troop, Rangitikei Calvary Volunteers. He was also a member of the Wellington Provincial Council, and the editor of the Wellington Independent newspaper.
As an immigration agent, he was involved in many settlement schemes in the 1870s, and supervised Scandinavian settlements in the Manawatu, northern Wairarapa, and southern Hawke's Bay. By 1874, he and his family were living in Feilding and were increasingly involved in the local affairs of the new settlement. The township and settlement of Halcombe and Stanway were named for him and his wife.
The success of the Manchester Block can be attributed in large measure to his foresight and agricultural ability.