Ann Redstone is celebrating her newly elected council status.
"We've just opened a little bottle of champagne," she told Hawke's Bay Today.
Having lived in Clive and Haumoana most of her life, Ms Redstone has a passion for the region.
Having been encouraged by members of the community to stand for a Heretaunga Ward seat, she said the backing has been reassuring.
But she was very clear about her mandate.