She's young, appealing, Maori and has sheer bolted into the Rotorua Lakes Council yet again.

So what is it about Tania Tapsell that appeals so much to the voters?

Miss Tapsell is easily the highest polling candidate, getting 9410 votes, nearly 1300 more than the next highest polling councillor, Peter Bentley on 8113.

"I was a bit surprised, but I guess I'm grateful for everyone's support, especially those who voted for the first time," Miss Tapsell told the Rotorua Daily Post.

Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.

Rotorua mayor Steve Chadwick said there were several reason people voted for Miss Tapsell, including her social media engagement.

"She's also young, appealing and demure. She's not provocative and puts things firmly but gently and is not seen as strident or opinionated."

Meanwhile, Miss Tapsell said it was disappointing to lose fellow female councillor - Janet Wepa.

"I'm sad that we have lost her [Janet Wepa] because she has done a great job and worked very hard, but the people of Rotorua have spoken and that's democracy.

"I'm looking forward to working with the new council and moving the city forward. But I do think we need more understanding [on council] and we all have to be committed to action," she said.