Biography

In 2017, David consulted with the Goa government of India about helping Goa’s youth by improving heritage tourism opportunities.

“I’m a change driver,” says David Wilson, “and I help communities discover their strengths for economic development.”

David helped to start the campaign in 1984 that restored Oamaru’s historic district and harbour, saving them from decay and turning them into a national treasure. In 1989 he was a founder of the Oamaru Whitestone Civic Trust and is a former chairman and life member.

In 1990, David began 15 years of work with the Department of Labour’s Community Employment Group. He became the National Coordinator of programmes to develop tourism, community and economic development in communities all over New Zealand.

David speaking with United Arab Emirates official in 2015 in his work as consultant to promote the economic value of heritage assets.

David was project director for Main Street Oamaru Revitalisation which made important improvements in the CBD to support tourism and economic development.

He was a facilitator helping to set up projects in Waitaki Valley, serving as Project Director of the successful establishment of Kurow’s Museum of Social Security. He was adviser to the Vanished World Fossil Trail initiative that ultimately led to the formation of the GeoPark.

From 2005 to 2020, David took his expertise world-wide and formed Heritage Futures International, consulting in Australia, South Africa, India, United Arab Emirates, Somalia, Kenya, Malaysia and New Zealand on how to build heritage assets with the energy and resources within local communities.

David as he appeared during his epic 52-day penny farthing ride the length of New Zealand to promote Oamaru and the Waitaki District.

Born in Dunedin, Oamaru is David’s hometown, and in 2012 he was honoured for his services in assisting the town to restore and repurpose its 19th century business precinct and harbour. David is the first and only wheelman in the nation’s history to peddle a penny farthing bicycle, solo, the entire length of New Zealand over a 52-day period. He used the ride to promote Oamaru and the Waitaki district.

David was Project Director for Oamaru’s 1994 Penny Farthing Revival, which has become a trademark of the Victorian Precinct image.

Bringing history alive has long been an interest of David, especially Oamaru’s famous Victorian Heritage Celebration week, when he helped start the initial celebration in 1989. He was National Coordinator of New Zealand Heritage Alive, which enhanced “Living History” programs and re-enactments across the country.