About 30 people attended a powhiri for Kaipara District Council commissioners John Robertson, Colin Dale, Richard Booth and Peter Winder held in the council chambers in Dargaville.
After a karakia (prayer) given by Pastor Rex Nathan, mihimihi (speeches) of welcome were given by kaumatua Hugh Nathan, Ben de Thierry and Bill Tohu on Monday.
The three speakers acknowledged the difficult issues that lay ahead for the commissioners, but all voiced the desire to work with and help them.
In reply, commissioners Mr Robertson and Mr Dale said their main role, with the support of the community, was to return the district to elected representation by 2015.
"At the end of the day we are here to serve the community," said Mr Dale.