Brian Hunter

‘‘ We brought our family from Auckland to Matamata in 1976, as Sandra and I saw it as a great environment for raising our boys,’’ Brian Hunter says. ‘‘We also knew rural towns provide plenty of scope for community involvement.’’

An engineer, Brian co-owned and managed award- winning company Centigrade for 30 years.

‘‘ I believe my business experience, combined with energy, enthusiasm and commitment to my community, is an effective combination for serving as a district councillor,’’ he says.

‘‘I’m a strong advocate of a consensual and solutions-focused approach to issues and of working to budget, however, for me it’s ultimately about the people and cre- ating a positive and thriving environment for residents of all ages – we also need to work hard at keeping our young people here.’’

Brian is a serving member of the Matamata Volunteer Fire Brigade and his 35 years’ service to date includes 19 years as chief (1993 to 2012) and a six-year spell on the United Fire Brigades Association executive (national president 2003-04), as well as a number of national committees.

A Rotarian for the past 28 years, Brian credits the service club for providing the opportunity for involvement in countless community projects.

‘‘And that’s what’s great about living in Matamata.’’