New Hamilton mayor Tim Macindoe speaks after the ceremony. Photo: RNZ / Libby Kirkby-McLeod
Hamilton's new mayor was sworn in this morning at a ceremony in Civic Square, outside the council building.
In his first address, Tim Macindoe said he wanted to bring the ceremony outside as a symbol of the new council being more visible and approachable to the community.
"I'm told it's many years since the swearing in ceremony has been held out here in Civic Square, but I was eager to change that," he said.
Macindoe said during the election campaign, voters told him elected officials only seemed visible during the runup to an election. He called on all elected members to have a part in changing that.
"I asked for the ceremony to be held in this, Civic Square, to symbolise my enthusiasm to ensure that we are more visible in the community."
He wanted the council to meet Hamilton residents where they live, work and play.
"We [should be] not only seen attending important events but meeting with Hamiltonians in their libraries and retirement villages and in as many places as you live and work as possible."
New councilors at the swearing in ceremony for the 2025-2028 Hamilton City Council. Photo: RNZ / Libby Kirkby-McLeod
Macindoe received his mayoral chains from previous mayor Paula Southgate who retired at the election. He thanked her for her many years of service and said he knew first hand how hard she worked for Hamilton.
"I have known Paula for more than 25 years, almost all of which she has spent in public service," he said.
Macindoe said he had contested 11 elections over his life - nine parliamentary, one council by-election, and the mayoralty - and took a moment to acknowledge candidates who were unsuccessful in the election.
"Election campaigns are challenging, expensive, and they can be brutal," he said.
Hamilton city's 14 councillors were also sworn in. They are: Rachel Karalus, Andrew Bydder, Anna Casey-Cox, Jamie Strange, Leo Liu, Sue Moroney, Geoff Taylor, Sarah Thomson, Graeme Mead, Mesh Macdonald, Angela O'Leary, Emma Pike, Maria Huata and Robbie Neha.
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