Bay of Plenty Regional Council's newest councillor Matemoana McDonald has been welcomed with a powhiri.

Matemoana will represent the Mauao Maori Constituency and fills the role left vacant after the passing of Councillor Awanui Black late last year.

The final results of the by-election held to fill the vacancy were declared on April 15, with Matemoana as the successful candidate being sworn into office at Thursday's Council meeting.

She was also appointed to Komiti Maori and to Te Awanui Tauranga Harbour Advisory Group as a member for the Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

Matemoana is automatically a member of the Regional Direction and Delivery Committee.

An entourage of Tauranga Moana iwi representatives attended in support at Thursday's powhiri.