Bill Bly, mayor from 1995 to 1998, said Joan could retire knowing her professionalism and commitment to council had been appreciated by all she came into contact with.
"Nothing was ever a problem for Joan," he said.
Maureen Reynolds, mayor from 1998 to 2010, thanked Joan for her 12 years of personal assistance.
"Joan now has the opportunity to do all those things she's talked about as, 'One day when I retire'. Well, that day has arrived," she said.
Roly Ellis worked with Joan from 2010 to 2016 and said he had fond memories of an amazing six years.
"Joan's been loved and highly respected by all those who have worked with her over the years," he said.
Current district mayor Tracey Collis has worked with Joan since 2016.
"Joan's knowledge and help has been invaluable, especially since the closure of the Manawatu Gorge. She has organised public meetings, often walking out of the office at 10pm," she said.
"Joan was here for the formation of the Tararua District and understands where we came from, how we arrived here and has shared in our challenges and successes.
"We will all need to do a little more hard work now the encyclopedia of Joan has left the shelf because Joan has always taken care of every little detail."
Joan received a standing ovation from councillors and council staff at their monthly meeting and it was an emotional moment as she wiped away the tears.
She admitted she'd seen many changes at council in those 30 years, but of special significance was the number of women now on council (Tararua has four councillors, including the mayor), as well as the more prominent role women took in all manner of things.
"When I started here women weren't in the workforce in the way they are now," she said. "There are now lots of opportunities for women."