Johannes Andersen

In 1887 he began working at the Department of Lands and Survey as a cadet draughtsman and then as a clerk. In May 1900 Andersen married teacher Kate McHaffie, who later became active in various community organisations in Wellington, including the New Zealand Women Writers' and Artists' Society. Andersen supported her endeavours, including by reviewing and endorsing the literary efforts of Society members. Andersen took a special interest in traditional Māori culture and mythology. This saw him attempt to record and retell aspects of their culture. To the public, he was best known as the inaugural librarian of the Alexander Turnbull Library from 1919 to 1937. Andersen participated in the 1919–1923 Dominion Museum ethnological expeditions alongside Te Rangihīroa, Elsdon Best, James McDonald and Āpirana Ngata. In the 1935 King's Birthday Honours, he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire.

The recorded working language is English. Work by Johannes Andersen is recorded in the collections of Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. Distinctions recorded are Hector Medal, Fellow of the Royal Society Te Apārangi and Member of the Order of the British Empire.

• Name — Johannes Carl Andersen • Born — 14 March 1873 • Died — 19 June 1962 • Birthplace — Klakring (now Hedensted), Denmark • Occupation — Clerk, poet, ethnologist, librarian, editor, historian • Spouse — Kate McHaffie (m. 1900) • Awards — MBE

Johannes Andersen is recorded as having received Hector Medal, Fellow of the Royal Society Te Apārangi and Member of the Order of the British Empire.