Meet Jono - Hamilton City Council Candidate
Standing for our local council is the best way to serve our community to ensure that our community stays connected. I’m running for council this year because Hamilton needs to be represented by people who value community engagement and to help make Hamilton a city for everyone. If we can feel the heartbeat of our community, Hamilton will be a great city to live, work, play and visit.
OUR VISION
To make Hamilton the sporting capital of New Zealand.
OUR MISSION
With a passion for both grassroots and professional sports, I believe that investing in sports infrastructure and events will not only elevate Hamilton’s national profile but also drive economic growth, community wellbeing, and overall liveability. My strategy is simple – by attracting more events, visitors, and investment into the city, Hamilton can increase revenue streams and in turn reduce pressure on council rates.
ABOUT ME
Raised in Hamilton, I understand the unique strengths and challenges of the local community. I bring a fresh perspective, energy, and a results-driven mindset to the table – focused on smart investments, community health, and financial accountability.
“If we position Hamilton as the heart of New Zealand sport – from elite events to everyday access to parks and facilities – we can build a thriving city that works better for everyone.”
I am running as an independent voice for East Ward, committed to practical, transparent decision-making and delivering real value for ratepayers.
With a Diploma of Sports and Exercise Science and a lifelong passion for sport at all levels, I want to put sport and events at the heart of Hamilton’s identity. My goal is to attract national and international sporting events, improve access to local facilities, and support both grassroots and elite athletes.
“A thriving sports culture means healthier communities, more tourism and local business opportunities — and ultimately, a city where people want to live, work, and stay.”
Outside of my sports background, I am a licensed real estate salesperson, giving me firsthand experience in the housing market and a deep understanding of the pressures families and ratepayers face. I'm committed to fiscal responsibility, advocating for smarter investments that generate returns and reduce long-term council costs.
I come from a multicultural background and speak English, Mandarin, and Cantonese — a proud reflection of the diversity within East Hamilton. As a father of two exuberant teenage boys, I'm deeply invested in the future of the city and the opportunities it offers the next generation.
OUTCOMES
- Sense of community & economic prosperity
- Connect and remove barriers for our community groups
- Champion representation of our whole community including youth, families, retirees, Maaori, ethnic groups and the disabled
- Empower our community to make a positive contribution to our city's overall wellbeing and economic development
Feel the heartbeat of the city
Better consultation and community engagement to identify the needs to everyday families as well as our aging community.
Prudent planning
Decipher community needs vs. wants, trim back on budget to focus on safety, infrastructure to drive liveability.
Smart partnerships
Strengthen the local business community to support our city to become a sustainable hub for future developments.
Kickstart community grant
Set up ongoing support for grassroots community organisations to manage their non-profit charitable trust.
From classroom to staffroom
Reactivate HCC internship & graduate programmes to provide pathways and advisory services to drive training and employment.
Even out the playing field
Review the Community Grant Policy to identify more opportunities for the disabled and youth communities.
Authorised by J Ng, 748 River Road