A new MP in New Zealand's Parliament, who is of Cook Island descent, has now resigned as deputy mayor of Palmerston North to take up his new role.
Tangi Utikere Photo: Palmerston North City Council
Tangi Utikere won his electorate, securing his spot in parliament following his Labour Party's landslide election win.
Utikere said he was ecstatic to represent his city, first on a local level and now in government.
"For me it's always been around representation and I love this city.
"Palmerston North is the city that I was born in, I was educated here, work here, live here, and so it was about providing an opportunity to go to the electorate with someone saying look I'm a local, I have a strong local voice."
Utikere's resignation was forwarded to the Council's Electoral Officer who will determine a date and requirement for a by-election.
Council will consider the necessary arrangements for the by-election at its meeting on 28 October.
Mayor Grant Smith will announce the new Deputy Mayor and the rearrangement of committee leadership responsibilities at the same meeting.
There is anticipation that a by-election may take place on 17 February 2021 and for candidate nominations to open 24 November.