Former MP Tim Macindoe has been confirmed as Hamilton’s new mayor. Video / Tom Eley
Former MP Tim Macindoe has been confirmed as Hamilton’s new mayor.
The councillor said he received a call from council chief executive Lance Vervoort with the news.
Macindoe told the Waikato Herald he is “absolutely elated and very honoured” by the result, which follows Mayor Paula Southgate’s decision not tostand for re-election.
Macindoe will meet with Vervoort soon to start assembling a team to shape the next three years.
“I anticipate the swearing-in will take place about a week from now,” he said.
New Hamilton Mayor Tim Macindoe with former Hamilton City mayor Margaret Evans. Photo / Tom Eley
He said while he respects former mayor Southgate and the councillors, it was time for a new approach: “Tighter financial management of our city and a much stronger focus on delivering core services well.”
He said he will ensure public money is not wasted and will keep any huge rate rise under control.
Macindoe’s experience in central government and ability to work across the aisle would allow him to work with people who disagree with him, he said.
“We might not agree on everything. But I will look forward to harnessing the talents of everyone who is elected.”
More than 5500 ordinary votes were cast in Hamilton today, the Hamilton City Council said.
“Saturday’s large voter turnout is expected to change the final standings.
“If Mr Macindoe is confirmed as Mayor then the standings in the East Ward will have to be recalculated under the STV voting system.”
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Macindoe is the former Hamilton West MP, and served in Parliament from 2008 to 2020, including a stint as Minister of Customs and Chief Government Whip under the National Government.
Elected to Hamilton City Council’s East Ward in a 2024 by-election, Macindoe has since been an advocate for infrastructure investment, community wellbeing, and a proposed Waikato medical school.
There is plenty of change around council tables across the Waikato districts, progress results show.
Ash Tanner steps back into the role of Matamata Piako Mayor, replacing incumbent Adrienne Wilcock. Tanner previously spent 12 years on council, nine as a councillor and three as mayor, leaving office in 2022.
John Funnell has been elected Taupō’s new Mayor, with 4575 votes. Zane Cozens trailed on 3461, followed by incumbent David Trewavas on 2400.
