Hamilton has its first candidate for the up-coming City Council East Ward by-election.
Matthew Small, 23, is a disability support worker and has begun campaigning for the East Ward by-election to be held in February. It follows the death of Councillor Philip Yeung in late September.
Mr Small has decided now is the time to make a change in politics after growing up under the poverty line.
"Seeing my sister going through the failing welfare system gave me passion to try and make changes to the system," Mr Small said.
His says his inspiration comes from former National Prime Minister John Key, who stepped down in December last year.