Vice-Admiral John Hunter, RN (29 August 1737 – 13 March 1821) succeeds Arthur Phillip as the second governor of New South Wales, Australia from 1795 to 1800.

An interesting blend of sailor and scholar, he explores the Parramatta River as early as 1788, and is the first to surmise that Tasmania might be an island.

As Governor, he tries to combat serious abuses by the military.

Some claim that he was not strong enough to control the ringleader John MacArthur; others claim that MacArthur was beyond control by anyone.

His name is commemorated in Hunter Valley.