Final answer:
The earliest definite reference to cricket in New Zealand appears in Wellington in 1842, mentioning a cricket club.
Step-by-step explanation:
The earliest definite reference to cricket in New Zealand appears in Wellington in 1842, mentioning a cricket club. At that time, cricket was emerging as a popular sport among British colonizers. The reference serves as evidence that cricket was being actively played and organized in New Zealand during the mid 19th century.