Connolly was born in
Geraldine in 1875 and educated at Hilton School. He was a farmer. In 1902 Connolly purchased the Raukapuka Estate, which he sold in 1919. He then acquired the Langley Estate at
Rakaia. During World War I Connolly was a member of the National Efficiency Board (1917–18) and of various patriotic societies. ==Member of Parliament==