There were just nine votes separating the top two candidates. Photo: RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King
A recount has confirmed the outcome of a closely contested seat in Porirua's local election.
Parirua Māori Ward councillor Kylie Wihapi, who was deputy mayor last term, has been confirmed winner by nine votes over candidate Jess Te Huia.
A recount in the Porirua District Court on Thursday disallowed two special votes which had previously been allowed, a Porirua City Council spokesperson said.
The recount was overseen by a Judge of the District Court, and scrutineers appointed by Te Huia, the recount applicant.
Wihapi received 934 votes, Te Huia 925 votes, Raniera Albert received 319 votes and Rawinia Rimene received 208 votes.
The council has not been able to hold its first meeting or swear in its councillors due to the recount process. Te Huia lodged a recount application in the Porirua District Court on 21 October.
Mayor-elect Anita Baker said she was "ecstatic" the council could now get started on its business.
"I'm ecstatic, we can now move forward, we've got a swearing in date of Tuesday the 25th."
She said a full council on the 11 December would embark on a "huge amount of business" for the city.
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