New Thames-Coromandel Mayor Sandra Goudie is pledging to 'do my darndest” to ensure the focus of her mayoralty is firmly on the people of the peninsula.

According to provisional results of this year's Thames-Coromandel District Council elections Sandra won the mayoralty chains by 481 votes over her rival Peter French.

'I loved the campaign and getting out and about to meet everyone. Thank you for believing in me. This is a clear win for the people of the Coromandel, and I will do my darndest to make sure the people of the Coromandel are the focus. Because that's what it's all about.

'Thank you to the people of the Coromandel. It's so great to be back.”

She also thanks all of the candidates who put their names forward and took an active part in 'our democracy” for this year's elections.

Sandra says she's looking forward to bringing together a fresh mix of newly elected people with a range of experience and to enhance the role of community boards within council.

'My congratulations to the successful candidates and I know we will all strive to work hard and represent our people with dignity and respect.

'Don't forget, my door and my mind are open. And if I forget... remind me! I want this to be a time we can all enjoy.”

People can email Thames-Coromandel Mayor Sandra Goudie at: [email protected]