George Stead

George Gatonby Stead was a New Zealand grain merchant whose business career made him a leading figure in Canterbury’s commercial life. His lasting influence, however, was in thoroughbred racing: he served as honorary secretary of the Canterbury Jockey Club for more than three decades, helped shape racing administration, and developed an important breeding operation. He also supported Christchurch institutions and helped restore the newspaper The Press after purchasing it in 1890.