From the Office of the Mayor-elect.
Hamilton City Council’s flag has been lowered to half-mast, following the passing of Freedom of the City Holder, Edgar (Ted) Truman Armstrong, on Thursday 9th October 2025.
A long-serving Hamilton City Councillor from 1977 – 2004, Ted Armstrong dedicated an impressive 27 years of service to his community. Ted held numerous positions during his time on Council, including Committee Chair of the Recreation and Welfare Corporate Services, Economic and Audit, and Statutory Management Committees, as well as a member of the Works and Services Committee for 27 years.
In 2005, he was bestowed with the city’s highest honour, Freedom of the City, in recognition of his significant and outstanding contribution to Hamilton Kirikiriroa over many decades.
Ted’s passion for the Waikato River/Awa and lake walkways led to him being named the “patron saint” of Hamilton’s footpaths. He was also deeply committed to civic engagement and events, including Anzac and Armistice commemorations.
Mayor-elect Tim Macindoe said Mr Armstrong’s passing marked the loss of a true community champion.
“Ted Armstrong was a well-loved and highly respected member of the Hamilton community. A person of great integrity, he served with humility and genuine care for the city and its people. We owe him a great deal for his decades of exceptional service and leadership, which has shaped the Hamilton we know today.
I enjoyed my regular interactions with Ted at numerous civic events and always appreciated his warmth, humour and passion for our city.
On behalf of Hamilton city and Hamilton City Council, I wish to convey my sincere condolences to his family, friends and wider Hamilton at this difficult time.”
Outgoing Mayor Paula Southgate also paid tribute and her respects to Mr Armstrong, noting his long service to the community and his love for the people.
The Council’s flag will remain at half-mast until after Mr Armstrong’s funeral, as a mark of respect and to acknowledge his significant contributions to the city of Hamilton.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Natasha (Tash) Lawrance
Press Secretary
Office of the Mayor
022 850 3560