"The benefits of having strong Te Arawa representation doesn't just impact Maori - what's good for Maori is also good for our entire local economy, environment, and overall well being.
"The iwi are also in strong support of the re-election of Steve Chadwick for mayor and the seven councillors who voted in favour of working in partnership with Te Arawa."
They were Dave Donaldson, Karen Hunt, Trevor Maxwell, Merepeka Raukawa-Tait, Charles Sturt, Tania Tapsell and Janet Wepa.
The iwi members are also supporting Julie Whare Beach and Chris Webber, who are running for the Lakes District Health Board.
Kaumatua Anaru Rangiheuea said the decision had been made and it was important Te Arawa thought strategically to ensure the "cherished partnership" between the iwi and council was strong.
"Personally, I think the past elections haven't been good.
"Some of the candidates at that time weren't who I would suggest.
"It's an opportunity now to make that right, to have candidates who will speak out for the iwi.
"It is important the partnership between Te Arawa and council keeps going, we know there is opposition out there of us working together," Mr Rangiheuea said.
All three council candidates said it was humbling and an honour to be selected.
"Knowing that people believe in you and back you is very surreal and awe-inspiring. I am giving back to this community that has sown seeds into my life. I am forever grateful," Mrs Howard said.
She said, if successful, she wanted to bring all facets of the community together.
"I believe that collaboratively and collectively social change happens. The kaupapa (purpose) has to be bigger than ourselves. It's not individualistic."
It was with "utmost humility and pride to stand for his iwi," Mr Kiel said.
"I will endeavour to uphold the mana of our ancestors who established this city for the betterment of all people who reside within our tribal precincts."
Mr Waru said he was passionate about serving his iwi and Rotorua.
"I'm humbled to be thought of as someone who can contribute, not only to our people but to the community as a whole."
However, the selection process has been criticised by some candidates who did not receive the endorsement of their iwi.
There are at least six other candidates with Te Arawa ancestry - Michael Staite, Kingi Biddle, Rawiri Daniels, Haydn Marriner, Kiri Skipwith and Rangimarie Kingi.
Mr Daniels said he was at the hui and said the selection process left a lot to be desired.
"It wasn't truly indicative of Te Arawa support, the turnout was very low and therefore the people present were only making a decision on those in attendance.
"I'm running independently and the people will decide if I'm worthy enough to represent them," he said.
Mr Biddle said he was happy for the three chosen but, "I would have liked to have some support from Te Arawa, irrespective of the outcome".
"It's definitely made it harder for me, but now the goal is to stand as an independent for Rotorua as whole.
"I've always been committed to the ideals of tatau tatau (we together).
"Even though at that meeting I didn't have the support, I know there are many people in Rotorua generally who do support me."
Mr Biddle said he questioned whether running for the council would be a good idea.
"But, about an hour after the meeting I was contacted by one of my aunties who was at the meeting and she told me to continue on, so I will."
Mr Marriner said he could not attend the hui as he was performing in the production Evita.
"I'm really happy that Te Arawa as an iwi is taking an interest in our local body elections, they are a huge part of our community and their involvement can only be positive.
"My only concern is that people may perceive it to be power block forming, which is unfair, as all the candidates will make great independent voices for all of Rotorua, some or all of which have Maori voters as supporters."
But, Sir Toby said the hui was advertised extensively for about a week and the invite was also shared widely on iwi Facebook pages.
He said the three candidates selected were assessed on their performance at the hui and how well they connected with those attending.
"Whanau members and non-whanau members of candidates were present.
"It is unfortunate not all candidates of Te Arawa whakapapa could attend this hui although certainly everyone was extended the invitation."
He was not available for further comment yesterday as he was attending celebrations for the Maori King in Ngaruawahia.