Maxine van Oosten Declares Council Bid

Education advocate and long-term Hamilton East resident Maxine van Oosten has declared her nomination for the Council’s Hamilton East by-election.

With 20 years’ experience in the finance sector and a further 12 years as an advocate for workers through the Hamilton union movement, Maxine has a broad perspective to take to the Council table.

“I want Hamilton to be a great city where people can raise their families here as I did, and proudly call it their own,” says Maxine, “It’s important that Council gives communities a genuine say in decision-making. I will listen before I make decisions.”

Maxine spent her secondary school years at Fraser High and has lived in Hamilton East for 25 years with husband Andrew. Together, they raised their children Samantha and James in Hamilton.

She currently works as an advocate for teachers and education staff at NZEI in Hamilton.

Her 20 years of banking experience will make her financial expertise a valuable asset in debates in the council chambers.

“I want to be part of a council that maintains and grows a solid infrastructure, grounded in the principles of sustainability and what’s best for communities of the future,” she said.

The Hamilton East residents will postal vote between January 26 and February 17 for their new councillor following the death of Cr Philip Yeung earlier this year.

“I have huge respect for the hard work and dedication shown by Philip Yeung,” said Maxine. “If I was chosen to follow in his footsteps, it would be a great honour.”

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