"It's a cloak of knowledge, that's supposed to protect, comfort and support for whoever wears it," Mr Muller told the Bay of Plenty Times.
Mr Muller was born in Te Aroha 45 years ago but calls the Bay of Plenty home. "It just reminds you of the importance of forever being grounded in where you came from."
Bidois family member and korowai creator Rosina Borell said the cloak was given "from out of our hearts".
"The korowai's purpose is to embrace the wearer with love and a sense of achievement and that it's not a destination but a journey. Because Todd is a great friend to us, we asked him if he would wear it. We are humbled by him wearing it and that way, we are part of it too."
In his speech, Mr Muller paid tribute to his predecessor Tony Ryall who retired last month and whose integrity and work ethic he hoped to emulate. He also thanked his family, including his grandparents Henry and Eileen Skidmore, former Mayor and Mayoress of Te Aroha.
"Family, faith and community were at the core of their lives and their example shines for me still," Mr Muller said.
"They demonstrated how selfless service not only enriches those who receive it, but for those who give it, enables a life that has distinct meaning."
Mr Muller said his goal for the Bay was a vibrant, diverse region that energetically and innovatively connected to the world.
"I commit to the people of the Bay of Plenty that I will add my voice and efforts to theirs and always look to promote our natural advantages of climate, soil, vocational and tertiary education, innovation and manufacturing excellence, diversity of people and ideas, which together with our global port gateway is increasingly taking our uniqueness to the world."
