New Hamilton city councillor Ryan Hamilton sworn in

New city councillor Ryan Hamilton with Hamilton Mayor Andrew King. Photo / Hamilton City Council

An emotional Ryan Hamilton was sworn in as Hamilton's newest city councillor at an extraordinary council meeting on Thursday morning.

Mr Hamilton was declared the winner of the Hamilton East Ward byelection on Wednesday with 1944 votes, some 407 votes ahead of second-placed Michael West, in a field of 15 candidates.

During his first speech as a councillor Mr Hamilton teared-up when thanking his family and friends for support. Mr Hamilton had unsuccessfully contested seven previous elections.

"To my wife and kids who have done this journey with me, thank you for your support. The kids handing out flyers in the rain and my wife who did not believe me when I rang her and told her. It has been a long time coming," Mr Hamilton said.

Mr Hamilton took time in his speech to acknowledge the passing of councillor Phillip Yeung, whose death triggered the byelection.

"I'd like to acknowledge the reputation he has left here with council and in the community. I will do my best to honour his memory even though my contribution will follow a different path."

Mayor Andrew King congratulated Mr Hamilton and his family on his byelection win, making special mention to his mum Mavora Hamilton, a former Hamilton City councillor.

"We have a second generation councillor coming through which is really exciting," Mayor King said.

"Ryan, I congratulate you on your campaign. Your message clearly resonated with the voters."

The mayor made mention of the up-coming 10-year plan meeting and the challenges ahead and told Mr Hamilton to always keep an open mind when making decisions in the council chamber.

"There are some old heads here, and some bold heads here and even some old bold heads around this table. I suggest you listen, you don't have to agree but ask the questions and get the answers you need."

"Always form your own opinions and vote your own way."

Mr Hamilton signed his councillor's oath in front of the mayor, councillors and family before officially taking his seat at the council table.

He hit the ground running with a finance committee meeting being held straight after the swearing in ceremony.