Many in the audience believed candidates Sandra Hazlehurst and Bayden Barber were the standouts in last night's debate.
Bharat Guha told Hawke's Bay Today she thoroughly enjoyed the debate.
"Everyone brought their own flavour with their background and expertise."
"It is very hard to pick anyone. I think leading was Sandra as she had experience on her side. The other one is Bayden and I relate it to his vision and if mayor, how he would like to see it implemented," Mr Guha said.
Read more: Hastings/Havelock North ward byelection candidates share their views
Hastings council candidates' debate to be livestreamed
He did not discount Waitawhara Tupaea's efforts.