Simon Bridges is National's new leader, while Paula Bennett has retained the deputy's role.
Tauranga MP Simon Bridges' appointment as the new leader of the National Party has been hailed as "brilliant news" for Tauranga.
Bridges was announced as the party's new leader on Tuesday afternoon, while Paula Bennett retained her deputy role.
The pair emerged from Tuesday's caucus vote with wide grins aftersecuring the leadership in a vote held behind closed doors.
Tauranga MP Simon Bridges has been chosen as leader of the National Party, with Paula Bennett (left) as his deputy. They are pictured here with wife Natalie Bridges (right). Photo / NZME
Tauranga's community leaders say Bridges' new role is exciting for the city, hoping to see some of Tauranga's issues brought to the forefront.
Tauranga mayor Greg Brownless said it was "very exciting to see one of our own citizens hold such a high position, regardless of the party".
Brownless said it would be good to see the National Party find "points of agreement" with the Government to work together to address issues the city faced, especially traffic congestion and housing.
Western Bay of Plenty mayor Garry Webber said it was "great" having someone from our region in the position of leader of the National Party as long as Bridges stuck to his word.
Webber said Bridges had made comments that he would support any legislation going through the house that would be beneficial to the whole of New Zealand.
"We are incredibly fortunate to have such a high calibre of MPs in our region. We are blessed with really good representatives."
Chamber of Commerce chief executive Stan Gregec said the announcement was "brilliant news" for Tauranga.
"It certainly put us on the map as the place where things are happening," Gregec said.
"I know he's [Bridges] got a great local team in place, so we have every expectation that his new role will deliver for Tauranga and the Tauranga economy," he said.
Bridges' long-time secretary Maree Brookes was "crying" with happiness when she heard the news Bridges was the new leader of the National Party.
She said the appointment was well deserved.
"I think it's great, I'm so happy."
Priority One chief executive Nigel Tutt said the appointment was positive for the region as Bridges' leadership would give more exposure the city.
Tutt said because Tauranga was the fastest-growing area in the country, it was important to "shine more of a light" on the issues the city faced.
"Regardless if you are from the left or the right, more visibility is a good thing," Tutt said.
"We've got a reputation here in Tauranga and a lot of people are talking about a lot of the good stuff happening here. Overall, we will get more visibility."
