Kettle arrived at Port Nicholson, Wellington in 1840. He was a cadet in William Mein Smith's survey corps, and was soon promoted on the strength of his abilities. In 1842, he led an exploration party up the Manawatu River penetrating to the Wairarapa district, helping to stimulate its pastoral development.
Kettle arrived at Port Nicholson, Wellington in 1840 and joined William Mein Smith's survey corps. He quickly rose through the ranks due to his skills. In 1842, he led an expedition up the Manawatu River, reaching the Wairarapa region, which helped boost its pastoral development.