We kept the city moving forward, thanks for your support: Paula Southgate

By Paula Southgate, Mayor of Hamilton

Reflecting on 24 Years of Service: A Farewell Message from Hamilton Mayor

Twenty-four years ago, I began my journey in local government. I never imagined that one day I would have the privilege of serving as Mayor of Hamilton Kirikiriroa. It has been the greatest honour of my career, and a responsibility I have always taken seriously.

As I prepare to step down, I’ve been reflecting on the path that led here. The opportunities we’ve seized, the tough decisions we’ve made, and the many successes we’ve achieved together. Most of all, I want to thank the people of Hamilton. Your support, your energy, and your belief in this city have made all the difference.

I’ve always believed our city is strongest when we work together. As Mayor, I’ve had just one vote, so my main role has been to lead, to listen, and to guide Council in making decisions that shape the future of our city. True leadership in local government isn’t about power, it’s about service, collaboration, and trust.

Not everyone will agree with every decision made, and that’s healthy in a functioning democracy. However, I want to acknowledge and thank those who have put themselves forward to serve. Over the past six years as Mayor, I’ve worked alongside many hardworking, committed councillors. We’ve had robust debates, made bold calls, and led through challenging times.

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In this exclusive to NewsViews, Mayor Paula Southgate bids farewell to Hamilton community and thanks them for their support to keep the city moving forward & progress in spite of challenges…NewsViews team wishes to thank Mayor Southgate for the city’s growth under her leadership & wishes her well in her future endeavours!

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COVID-19 was one of the most difficult tests of our leadership, followed closely by the economic uncertainty it left behind. We also had to respond to significant reforms from central government, including the transition of water services, which has fundamentally changed how councils operate. These wasn’t easy to navigate, but we kept the city moving forward.

Growth and affordability have been two of our biggest ongoing challenges. Yet councils are under increasing financial strain. Insurance premiums are up, borrowing is more expensive, and construction costs have surged. At the same time, we’re expected to do more, meet national standards, build climate resilience, and support growth, all with a funding system that hasn’t kept pace. The current model, tied to short political cycles and reliant on rates, is no longer fit for purpose. Our ratepayers cannot, and should not, carry this burden alone.

Hamilton is the fastest-growing city in New Zealand, and we’ve had to balance the urgent need for housing with the importance of good urban planning. We want a city that’s not just bigger but better.

Now there is a raging debate: what is “core business” for councils? Yes, essential infrastructure must come first but our residents also care deeply about the spaces and services that make a city livable. Parks, libraries, pools, events, and community spaces are not luxuries. They are the beating heart of our communities and just as vital to wellbeing as roads and pipes.

These pressures will not vanish after the election. The next Council will inherit the same questions we’ve faced: How do we fund the future? What can we realistically afford to do? What must we let go of?

Despite all of this, there is so much to be proud of. We’ve transformed Hamilton Gardens into a world-class destination. We’ve expanded our Zoo, supported a thriving events calendar that draws people to our city, and laid the foundation for a new water entity to safeguard our future. These are tangible signs of progress.

As I step away from public office, I do so with deep gratitude and real optimism. The work has been hard, but the purpose has always been clear: to build a strong, inclusive, forward-looking city for everyone.

Now, more than ever, we need bold, positive leadership that breaks down barriers and builds on the opportunities ahead. We need diverse voices around the table, constructive debate, and civic champions willing to stand up for Hamilton Kirikiriroa’s future.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve. It has been the privilege of a lifetime.

Editor’s Note: The views expressed in this column, ViewPoint are the personal opinions of the writer, and do not reflect the views of NewsViews nor does it ascribe to these in any manner.