The by-election was held on 28 July 1904, and was precipitated by the death of sitting
Liberal member of parliament
John O'Meara on 3 July 1904. Former
Wairau MP
Lindsay Buick was selected by the government as the official Liberal candidate. Frank C. Perry announced himself as a candidate, but later withdrew his candidature. His supporters then met to decide whether to support either Hawkins or Bolton in order to defeat the government candidate (Buick). ==Result==