William Colenso was a 19th-century English missionary, printer, and naturalist known for his work in New Zealand. Arriving in 1834, he played a significant role in the early European settlement and was instrumental in translating the Bible into the Māori language. His efforts helped bridge cultural gaps and promote literacy among the Māori people. In addition to his missionary work, Colenso was an avid botanist and contributed to the study of New Zealand flora. He discovered several new plant species and published numerous scientific papers. His legacy includes both his religious contributions and his impact on the natural sciences in New Zealand.