Wanganui's new Mayor

The new mayor Annette Main. Photo / Wanganui Chronical

Yesterday morning she was manning her stall at the Whanganui River Traders Market; by the afternoon she was celebrating being Wanganui's first female mayor.

She's Annette Main, and she's the new mayor.

Ms Main beat deputy mayor Dot McKinnon by a mere 219 votes, but had convincing wins over the other three contenders - Ray Stevens, Philippa Baker-Hogan and Jango.

Ms Main's campaign headquarters on London St was party central this afternoon, with dozens of family members, friends and supporters making for an excited atmosphere. There were also a number of successful and unsuccessful candidates at the party to offer congratulations.

Ms Main said was very happy with her victory.

"I'm so pleased for everyone who has been willing to get involved."

Ms Main said she believed her win signalled a new era in Wanganui.

"People wanted a different style, a more inclusive style. That's the message that came through to us.

"The challenge now is to deliver and really make Wanganui people feel included."

Ms Main paid tribute to the woman she defeated to win the mayoralty.

"I acknowledge the result is close, and I think that reflects the great job Dot has done as the deputy mayor."

"I knew it wouldn't be easy."

Soon-to-be former mayor, Michael Laws, who is now a Wanganui District councillor, was less than gracious in congratulating Ms Main for her win.

"With just 36 per cent of the vote, Annette Main does not possess an overwhelming mandate as mayor.

"Nevertheless I congratulate her and pledge my fullest co-operation in making the best decisions for the wider Wanganui community."

Ms McKinnon, is now in the political wilderness. She did not stand for council, and she sold her business in order to campaign for the mayoralty.

She and her husband, Richard Moore, and supporters held a "wake" at the Kingsgate Hotel yesterday afternoon. She told the Wanganui Chronicle she was disappointed.

"A lot of people put their faith in me, and I'm sorry for letting them down. But that's how democracy works.

"I thought it would be close, but I was never complacent about the result."

Ms McKinnon said her diary now has an "open plan" look about it, and she will take a holiday before deciding her next move.

She said it was far too soon to think about whether she would stand again in three years.

Wanganui District Council has a familiar feel to it, with only four new councillors, including Mr Laws.

The returning incumbents are Sue Westwood, Rob Vinsen, Allan Anderson, Rangi Wills, Nicki Higgie, Ray Stevens, Philippa Baker-Hogan and Randhir Dahya. The only unsuccessful incumbent was Rana Waitai.

The new councillors are Clive Solomon, Hamish McDouall and Jack Bullock.

These results are preliminary. Final results will be available during the week.