Peter Bos (MBE (Mil) ED), who served 15 years as a Hamilton City Councillor, had long been associated with rugby, is a life member of Waikato Rugby Supporter's Club and NZ Harlequins RFC, and was an influential figure in the construction of the stadium – his involvement included raising the early funding to start the campaign, the formation of ‘Friends of the Stadium’ in 1996 to mobilise public support, and tirelessly working towards the construction of an international-standard stadium in Hamilton.

With Peter as its founding Executive Director and backed by a high-profile team of Waikato identities including Sir Patrick Hogan, Neil and Tim Finn, and Dame Susan Devoy, Friends of the Stadium secured 18,000 signatures and raised thousands of dollars for the campaign.

Peter's dedication towards the stadium project was a catalyst in him first being elected as a Hamilton City Councillor in 1998. During his time on Council, he held the position of Chairman of the Stadium Working Party for 18 months, and Chairman of the Stadium Management Board for a further four and a half years.

Some of Peter's other major contributions during his five terms on Council include Ambassador and Chairman for Rugby World Cup 2011, installation of the stadium's Whatanoa Gateway, restoration of the S.S Rangiriri at Memorial Park, establishment of Hamilton’s civic relationship with Ypres in Belgium and involvement with the city's ANZAC Day commemorations.

Peter also served in the Reserve Forces for 29 years, reaching the rank of Captain and receiving a Military Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for his actions during the Edgecumbe Earthquake, and has been awarded the Efficiency Medal for 12 years service in the ranks and the Efficiency Decoration for 12 years service as an Officer.