On Tuesday 26 August 2025, the Hamilton Branch of the National Council of Women New Zealand hosted a well-attended Meet the Candidates evening at the Waikato Cathedral Church of St Peter, 51 Victoria Street. The event drew 33 local government candidates and a strong audience of engaged voters.

Sarah Thomson, one of the women mayoral candidates

Proceedings opened with mayoral candidates and those standing in the Kirikiriroa Maaori Ward sharing their visions for Hamilton, before all participating in a lively rapid-fire question round.

Maxine Van Oosten, current Councillor

From 7.30 pm, ward-specific sessions were held: West Ward and Hamilton-based regional council candidates spoke in the Cathedral, while East Ward candidates presented simultaneously in the Hall. This format gave the public an opportunity to hear directly from a wide cross-section of voices.

Anna Casey Cox, current Councillor

The evening closed with networking over hot drinks and biscuits in the Hall, where attendees could engage more informally with candidates.

NCWNZ Hamilton Branch was delighted with the turnout, noting the event provided a valuable platform for democracy in action and for voters to connect directly with those seeking to represent them.

To read more articles from The Circular (July-August 2025) issue 653, click on the tag below.