Hemi Rolleston wins New Zealand's Tauranga Māori Ward by-election, set to join the council on May 8.

Hemi Rolleston has won the Te Awanui Māori Ward by-election in Tauranga, New Zealand, filling the seat left vacant by his nephew Mikaere Sydney, who resigned due to illness. Rolleston won by 119 votes and will join the council on May 8. Mayor Mahé Drysdale welcomed Rolleston, highlighting the importance of the Māori Ward for community representation. Rolleston has experience in various councils and boards and is a member of several iwi.