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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Wellington Provincial District]
Scales, George Herbert
Scales, George Herbert, Stock Salesman and Auctioneer, Hemp Broker and Insurance Agent, Featherston Street, Wellington. Telephone 190; P.O. Box 135. Bankers, Bank of New Zealand. Private residence, Lower Hutt page 571 London Agents, Scales & Co., Fenchurch Street, E.C. Mr. Scales is a native of England, and came to the Colony in 1879, per ship “Duke of Athol,” from London. After gaining a good knowledge of mercantile affairs, he established the present business in 1884. In New Zealand flax (phormium tenax) he does a considerable trade exporting on his own and clients' account to England and America. In 1895, Mr. Scales took out a license as an auctioneer, and has been singularly successful as a “knight of the hammer,” He undertakes outdoor sales as may be required in any part of the country or city, but his special lines are stock and wool. Farmers desirous to realise on their cattle and sheep will find Mr. Scales able and willing to undertake the duty. At the Ram and Ewe Fair, held on January 21st, 1896, 1030 animals were yarded, and of these 730 were entrusted to Mr. Scales to sell. That so large a proportion should be placed in the hands of this gentleman is convincing evidence of his ability as a stock auctioneer, and of the complete confidence that is reposed in him by the pastoral public. Mr. Scales sells a great many pure-bred cattle by private treaty. During the four months preceding the time of writing (January, 1896) a very large number have been quitted from all parts of the North Island, and from Canterbury and Otago, in this way. Thus this business serves as a connecting link between the East and West Coasts and between the North and South Islands of the Colony. Breeders and farmers in any part of New Zealand may communicate with Mr. Scales, who will undertake to realise to the best advantage, or purchase choice stock from the best herds at reasonable quotations. As a wool auctioneer, Mr. Scales sells for Messrs. Levin and Co., merchants, and the United Farmers' Alliance, Limited, as well as for himself. He holds three wool auctions in the season, and has been successful in obtaining top prices for his clients He has a good connection in insurance matters, in which he represents that old-established society, the Northern Assurance Company of London and Aberdeen. He also holds the Agency of the Straits Marine Insurance Company of Singapore and London. Mr. Scales has always taken a deep interest in the progress of the Colony, and in no way has he shown this more than in connection with the Wellington Agricultural and Pastoral Association, of the Executive Committee of which he has long been a member, and has recently accepted the arduous position of Secretary. In sporting matters, he is judge of the Wellington Racing Club, a post which he has held for several years past. He also takes a keen interest in athletics and shooting.