The Hastings District Council chambers were packed with visitors yesterday to welcome Hastings mayor Sandra Hazlehurst and councillor Wendy Schollum to their new roles.
After a karakia, chief executive Ross McLeod assisted Mrs Hazlehurst to don her robe, chain and hat, the insignia of office steeped with meaning.
He said the robe was an outward sign of distinction and the authority the mayor's fellow citizens had conferred on her, and the chain was a reminder of the mayor's role as the chief service provider to the district.
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"This is the biggest piece of bling I have ever worn," Mrs Hazlehurst said when donning the chain, to applause and laughter.
She said she was proud and honoured to be elected mayor, and thanked the many people who had helped her with her successful campaign.
"It's not been an easy ride, but it's been a very worthwhile ride."
She acknowledged fellow candidates Simon Nixon, Bayden Barber and Waitawhara Tupaea and thanked them for standing to represent the district.
Of Mr Tupaea, who attended the occasion, she said she was sure there would be opportunities for him to get involved with council in the future through the Mayor's Taskforce for Jobs.
As for the term ahead she warned the councillors that while they had worked hard over the last six months, things were only just getting started and they were in for a busy two years.
"We are in a great place – it's been a jolly hard year but we have pulled together with two people down – we have an incredible council who want the best for the people of Hastings.
"We know what the challenges are and have a strong team to help work through those and build strong partnerships.
"We are going to make Hastings rock – watch this space."
She said the deputy mayor decision would be discussed at a chairman's committee meeting next week and also at a retreat including all the councillors.
It was possible a decision may be made by the time of an upcoming council meeting on December 14, but this was not a confirmed date.
New councillor Wendy Schollum, accompanied by her 4-year-old daughter Gemma, also signed the declaration yesterday and said she was humbled and thrilled to be there.
At the end of the ceremonial proceedings, Mr McLeod said Simon Nixon would remain as deputy mayor until a new one had been chosen, either by the mayor or by resolution of the council.