KEY POINTS:
Simon Bridges has just given his victory speech, paying tribute to both friends and foes after winning the Tauranga seat.
Mr Bridges and his wife Natalie were handed glasses of champagne before the speech and the crowd at the Tauranga Golf Club sang, "For he's a jolly good fellow".
Mr Bridges' speech had echoes of that given by new US president Barack Obama, in that Mr Bridges paid warm tribute not only to his supporters, but also to his biggest rival, New Zealand First leader Winston Peters.
"I respect you in this campaign," Mr Bridges said. "I have learned a lot from you where we have jousted.
"A young man cannot but help but be impressed by your experience in a debate.
"Whether you are in or out of this next Parliament, we don't entirely know yet, but I wish you well in the future."
Mr Bridges also thanked Bob Clarkson, the city's MP for the last three years, saying his success had "put National back on the map in Tauranga".
He said he was "truly humbled" by the hundreds of people who had supported him during the campaign with "time, toil, sweat, tears and baking".
The 31-year-old vowed to "work relentlessly" for his constituents, saying tonight signalled a "fresh start and a new vision" for Tauranga.
He said he would "shun pettiness and act with courtesy, humility, dignity and respect" as an MP.
Mr Bridges ended the speech with the same kind of personal tribute to his wife that Barack Obama made after his victory on Wednesday.
"Over many months Natalie has been breadwinner and supporter and wife. I love you and appreciate all you do for me every minute of the day."
Mr Peters, meanwhile, also showed grace in defeat, saying Mr Bridges was a "bright young guy" in his concession speech.
"I want to give him my congratulations and give him all my best".
