Tauranga's former deputy mayor David Stewart is swapping his Mount Maunganui beachfront lifestyle to become an avocado orchardist at Katikati.
The man who carved out an 18-year career in local government politics has sold his impeccable home on Marine Parade's golden mile to a Waikato farming couple.
Mr Stewart, 56, was forced to reappraise his life when he and six other Tauranga City councillors were dumped by voters at last year's local body election.
"I always liked the idea of going rural and this property ticks all the boxes; it gives me something to do," he said.
He and partner Heather looked at more than 20 rural properties before settling on the orchard tucked under the Kaimais with panoramic harbour views to Mauao.