The Gore District Council for the 2022-25 term has been sworn in with New Zealand's youngest mayor, Ben Bell.
After a powhiri to welcome the councillors and mayor, former mayor Tracy Hicks passed over the mayoral chain of office to Mr Bell (23), yesterday.
Mr Bell thanked Mr Hicks for his 18 years of service.
"I hope to do both yourself and all the former mayors proud."
The other milestone of the event was the swearing in of brothers Paul and Richard McPhail.
It will be the first time brothers have served together.
The new council (from left) Robert McKenzie, Keith Hovell, Paul McPhail, Bronwyn Reid, Glenys Dickson, Mayor Ben Bell, Joe Stringer, Neville Phillips, deputy mayor Stewart MacDonnell, Richard McPhail, John Gardyne and Bret Highsted. PHOTO SANDY EGGLESTON
