Clarkson already sets sights on second term

National MP Bob Clarkson says he is keen to stand in Tauranga again after increasing his majority over Winston Peters on special votes.

"I'm planning on two terms," the 66-year-old millionaire commercial builder said.

Mr Clarkson was sad he would be part of an opposition party rather than government.

"I want to stay another term under National and help put the country on the right track," said Mr Clarkson.

The new MP also plans to work to get Tauranga's Harbour Link project built without tolls.

Mr Clarkson increased his election night lead of 568 to 730 after the special votes were counted and announced on Saturday.

He finished with 15,020 votes, well clear of New Zealand First leader and former Tauranga MP Winston Peters on 14,290, Labour's Sally Barrett on 4020 and United Future's Larry Baldock on 1323.

In Tauranga, National took the party vote with 16,559 or 45 per cent, Labour captured 11.055 or 30 per cent and NZ First slipped back to 4851 or 13 per cent.

Meanwhile Mr Peters ' campaign manager John Foote still believes Mr Clarkson spent well over his campaign budget of $20,000.

"It's even gone over $33,000," Mr Foote said.

"I've completed the work I was asked to do and I now wait to hear what Winston wants to do about it."

Mr Clarkson is adamant his spending did not go overboard.

"We left a big enough margin to cover the expenses in dispute and I'll be saddened if Winny and his supporters waste their money (on a petition)."

An electoral petition to the High Court has to be lodged within 28 days of the official result and, if it is successful, a by-election is held.

- NZPA