Departing Politician On 30 Years Of Change In Hanmer Springs

Thursday, 18 September 2025, 5:36 pm
Article: David Hill - Local Democracy Reporter

A former Hurunui deputy mayor says Hanmer Springs has undergone a huge transformation during his three decades of service to the community. 

Michael Malthus arrived in the North Canterbury tourist town in 1994, setting up a business before standing for the Hanmer Springs Community Board. 

He served three terms on the Hurunui District Council, including six years as deputy mayor from 2007 to 2013. 

Now retired to Christchurch, Mr Malthus is stepping down from the Hanmer Springs Community Board next month.

‘‘The biggest thing is Hanmer in the early 1990s was very much the hospital, Transpower putting in the pylons and the forest. There were not many restaurants or hotels.’’ 

Queen Mary Hospital closed in 2003, and while Mr Malthus was one of the locals who tried to keep it open, the town was already changing. 

Motels and retail shops opened up, the thermal pools were developed, along with mountain bike and walking trails, and other activities. 

‘‘The changes in Hanmer were quite considerable. Tourism has become an enormous thing.’’ he said.

‘‘Hanmer has quite a big population during the holidays and weekends, but the permanent population is only 1000 or so.’’ 

Mr Malthus was born and bred in the Hurunui district, with his parents farming on the banks of Waitohi River, near Hawarden. 

During his time in Hanmer, he ran several businesses, including running accommodation facilities and owning property. 

He was also a vestry member of the Church of the Epiphany, served on the track network group, the local business association and was a council appointee on the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa Management Committee. 

‘‘Hanmer has developed a lot over the years and it was a very supportive community, which worked well together. 

‘‘It is something I will always be grateful for.’’ Mr Malthus said he continued to be active on several committees in Christchurch, including the Fendalton Anglican Parish, being in charge of the works committee to help bring the buildings ‘‘up to scratch’’.

-LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.

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