The oil portraits of previous mayors that greet visitors to the Hastings District Council chambers were yesterday joined by a representation of the district's first female mayor.
The portrait was unveiled by Hawke's Bay artist Freeman White and Hastings District Council kaumatua Jim Whaanga at a small ceremony held yesterday that left Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst "truly honoured".
"Freeman has captured in my portrait those who have stood and who stand steadfastly behind me. They are my family, my mentors past and present, and those who encourage and support me at every turn to be the best I can be, so I can do the very best for our people."
White crafted the work over several month, reworking it five times.
"The significance of this being the first female portrait amongst all men wasn't lost on me and I wanted her to appear strong and confident yet approachable", he said.
