Hamilton has all the ingredients to be a thriving, future-ready city—but we can’t build that future on shaky ground. Right now, our council’s financial foundation is under strain. Debt is rising, procurement lacks transparency, and ratepayers are left wondering where their money is going.
This isn’t about blame—it’s about responsibility. Honest leadership means facing these challenges head-on, restoring trust, and making sure every dollar spent delivers value for the people of our city.
As a mayoral candidate, I’m focused on strengthening the foundation so Hamilton can thrive long-term. That means:
- Fiscal responsibility: Understanding where we stand, planning where we’re headed, and ensuring every financial decision supports the city we all want.
- Procurement integrity: Ratepayers deserve transparency, value, and trust in every dollar spent. Contracts must be awarded fairly, efficiently, and in ways that build long-term community benefit.
- Long-term resilience: Hamilton must plan not patch. We need a city built on strong systems, smart planning, and sustainable growth.
We also have to address the real impacts on residents and businesses. Families, young people, and local businesses feel the pressure when council debt rises or procurement decisions are unclear. Every decision matters, and every dollar counts. It’s time to restore confidence and accountability.
Our city can be the City of the Future, a hub for innovation, culture, and opportunity. But that future depends on the actions we take today. By fixing the foundation, we free the future—for our children, our communities, and everyone who calls Hamilton home.
Leadership isn’t just about vision; it’s about responsibility. It’s about facing hard truths, owning them, and acting with purpose. As your mayor, I will bring transparency, fiscal discipline, and a focus on what really matters—so Hamilton can grow strong, confident, and ready for the opportunities ahead.
Let’s fix the foundation. Let’s free the future. And let’s build a city that lasts.
#FixTheFoundation #FutureFocused #KaralusForMayor
Rachel Karalus
rachel@rachelkaralus.co.nz