Roberts has served on the boards of management of many local public institutions, notably the Otago University committee, and as chairman of its finance committee, During the days of Provincial Governments, Roberts represented Kaikorai in the Otago Provincial Council.
Roberts has served on the boards of management of many local public institutions, notably the Otago University committee, and as chairman of its finance committee. From June 1873 until its abolition in October 1876, Roberts represented Kaikorai in the Otago Provincial Council.