John Glover said it would give the new council "fresh thinking", but would be balanced by the return of several experienced councillors.
"So having that balance of experience and the balance of fresh thinking gives us great opportunities going forward."
Based on progress results released on Saturday, Mr Glover received 3449 votes to defeat incumbent Glyn Lewers, who received 2635 votes.
Mr Lewers was contacted for comment, but did not respond.
In a social media post yesterday evening, he thanked those who had voted for him.
Serving as mayor for the past three years had been "immensely rewarding, and I am proud to have achieved a lot with a diverse team of people".
"Local government is challenging and complex, and I wish the best for everyone who has been elected for the road ahead."
Others ousted were four-term councillor Craig Ferguson, a former deputy mayor, Lyal Cocks, Lisa Guy, Barry Bruce and Cody Tucker.
Mr Glover, 64, who had previously run three times unsuccessfully for council, said voters had sent a clear message for change.
Councillors would need to "listen to and act on what is said by residents", and spend ratepayer money as if it was their own, he said.
"We will apply a laser-sharp financial focus and review the culture of financial practices in order to minimise rates increases.
"We will work to deliver ‘smart growth’ where we are ahead of the game with services, transport and community facilities, where growth pays its way and provides new opportunities and where it does not compromise our environment."
Results for the other mayoral candidates were Nik Kiddle (1629 votes), Darren Rewi (1236), Al Angus (712) and Daniel Shand (93).
In the Arrowtown-Kawarau ward, Melissa White was returned with 1267 votes. She will be joined by former one-term councillor Heath Copland (1510) and newcomer Samuel "Q" Belk (1349).
In the Queenstown-Whakatipu ward, Matt Wong (1744) and Gavin Bartlett (1537) held their seats and will be joined by newcomers Stephen Brent (1437) and Jon Mitchell (1307).
In the Wānaka-Upper Clutha Ward, incumbents Quentin Smith (2722) and Niki Gladding (2256), formerly of Queenstown-Whakatipu ward, were returned to the council table, while the newcomers were Nicola King (2833) and Yeverley McCarthy (1707).
In the Wānaka-Upper Clutha Community Board, Simon Telfer (3186), Kathy Dedo (3081), John Wellington (2380) and Chris Hadfield (1871) were all elected.
The provisional voter return is 32.93%, being 10,248 votes, with final results expected by Thursday.
