A Scot who first mined on the Victorian goldfields, George Wilson then arrived in New Zealand to fight in the Waikato War. Once mining commenced at Thames, he moved there, and was involved in this industry for the rest of his life. He was also active in the Thames community. He held several official posts at Te Aroha after moving there in the early 1880s, the most important being as the mining inspector. Before acquiring these positions, he had invested in mines there. He did all he could to assist the development of the Te Aroha field, notably by encouraging miners to become more skilled. His efficiency led to his being appointed as the mining inspector for Hauraki and then the chief inspecting engineer for the Mines Department. Before official duties required him to leave Te Aroha, he had assisted the latter community in several ways, notably in developing and improving the hot springs domain. His wife kept a low profile but was equally popular, and they died esteemed and respected by all.