Helma Vermeulen
Helma Vermeulen currently serves on the New Zealand First Member’s Council and the Board of Directors, and will stand for the Party in the Palmerston North electorate.
Born in Dordrecht, the Netherlands, Helma immigrated to New Zealand at the age of 20. She has raised a large family, built businesses, and is actively involved in community service and political advocacy.
Throughout her life, Helma has worked in community-focused roles, including fostering children, respite care, working as a diversional therapist assistant, and helping establish initiatives that support families and vulnerable members of the community.
Alongside her community work, Helma has extensive experience in business ownership, property development, hospitality, and project management. These experiences have given her a practical understanding of the challenges facing families, small businesses, and regional communities.
New Zealand has provided Helma with many incredible opportunities, and she feels privileged to call this country home. She is passionate about protecting New Zealand's sovereignty, preserving democracy, supporting families, and ensuring ordinary New Zealanders have a strong voice in the decisions that affect their lives.