"Most mornings of the week at 7.10 Bill and I have discussed a vast range of matters behind the scenes. We've not always agreed, but after careful thought, one of us has come around," Mr Ellis said.
Mr Ellis also remembered the two great councillors who died during his time at the helm - Brenda Dodunski and Keith Fenemor.
"Both too early and with so much still to give," he said.
"Our [council's] forestry surplus would have never been as good without Keith and it turned our forestry finances right around after some years of mediocre performance. That proved having a portfolio holder who knew what he was doing on council went a long way. Keith was ever the fox terrier."
And Mr Ellis had a message for environmentalists.
"As a signature to the Manawatu River Accord, Tararua has done extremely well with dairy farmers and council cleaning up our rivers. Many millions of dollars have been invested and as I've said time and time again, it takes time to get traction and turn the Queen Mary around. Perhaps the environmentalists need to open their cheque books and give major volunteer time to help out.
"Instead of them being know-alls and pedantic, let us all get pragmatic about solutions rather than throwing grenades around."
While thanking staff and management, Mr Ellis had a special word for Peter Wimsett, council's manager of strategy and district development.
"Peter, my life has never been so complicated by your policies, strategies, technology and deep thinking. You are certainly a man with a difference and respected by all for your thoughtfulness."
Council governance manager Richard Taylor also received special accolades.
"You're absolutely brilliant," Mr Ellis said.
Councillor Jim Crispin said he hoped the back paddock Mr Ellis was retiring to was fully stocked.
"You've been a good mayor," he said.
Mr Roberts said there was a certain sadness in leaving.
"I'm sad to be going, but it's time to let someone fresh come in," he said.
And Mr Keltie praised Tararua Alliance for the dramatically improved roading.
"Since the move to the alliance, we've had more bang for our buck," he said.
Before leaving the council chambers district council staff and councillors gave Mr Ellis a standing ovation.