A judicial recount has overturned one of the results in Whakatāne's local elections by just a single vote.
Photo: RNZ / Sarah Robson
The result released on 18 October had the two candidates for the the Galatea-Murupara Ward on Whakatāne District Council tied on 262 votes each.
Newcomer Hinerangi Goodman was declared the new councillor when her name was drawn out of a hat.
But the position was given back to incumbent Alison Silcock after she requested a recount.
The recount took place yesterday under the supervision of a district court judge.
Electoral Officer Dale Ofsoske said the recount process was carried out under strict conditions.
"A very prescribed and transparent process was undertaken to determine the outcome of the recount," he said.
"Both candidates had appointed scrutineers to observe the process."
Mr Ofsoske said Ms Silcock would be sworn in at a council meeting on 7 November.
She has been a Whakatāne councillor for the past six years.