Election 2013: Whakatane's Tony Bonne back in

Tony Bonne

Re-elected Whakatane Mayor Tony Bonne is planning on a business-as-usual Monday.

"There's no new ropes to learn, I'll be straight back into things and hopefully spending the next week-and-a-half sitting down with each the new district councillors helping them blend into the team," Mr Bonne said.

"At the end of the day it's all about the team."

Mr Bonne insists Whakatane has always had the best council in New Zealand and, following the election results, believes the group representing Whakatane ratepayers for the next triennium is even stronger.

"I'm very pleased with the new council. Even though the changes are subtle, it's looking like a great team."

Mr Bonne said he was also pleased both Opotiki and Kawerau incumbent Mayors John Forbes and Malcolm Campbell, were re-elected.

"I think it's really important for the Eastern Bay community," Mr Bonne said.

"We've formed a fantastic working relationship that is vital for the economic growth of the region."

Mr Bonne said he had planned a few celebratory drinks with his campaign supporters for Saturday afternoon and on Sunday, would be working in his shop.

"This is a fantastic result and I would like to thank the people who voted for me."