Hastings Deputy Mayor Tania Kerr, after 17 years of service, will not seek re-election in October.

Hastings Deputy Mayor Tania Kerr will not seek re-election in October after serving as deputy mayor for eight years, councillor for 17 years, and member of the Rural Community Board since 2001. Kerr plans to spend more time with her husband. She highlighted the council's approval of a Māori ward and praised her partnership with local mana whenua. Kerr will remain in her role until October's elections.