For at least 24 hours, Tauranga was New Zealand's new centre of power.
In a rare event, Tauranga hosted acting Prime Minister Tony Ryall and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Smith on Friday, August 21.
Tony and Nick temporarily gained the two top positions 4pm, Thursday, August 20, while John Key and other senior cabinet ministers were in Australia.

Acting Prime Minister Tony Ryall and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Smith.

Tony will hand the mantle or responsibility back to Bill Engilsh at midnight on Saturday, August 22.
'Tauranga is the hub of power today,” Tony said as he and Nick met on Devonport Road in central Tauranga.
Tony, who is Minister of Health, says its business as usual but with an added title.
'It's absolutely fantastic to have this once in a life time opportunity, it's a real privilege. Any important decisions are going to be made here,” says Tony.

John Key cutting the ribbon to the National Party offices on Devonport Road earlier this year. Little did he realise then that this would become the 'Bayhive' today.

He says the only significant difference with his new temporary role is having two Diplomatic Protection Squad members following his every step.
But Tony says the most powerful job in the county is not one he plans to get used to.
'I think the quickest way to end your political career is to have aspirations for the Prime Minister's job for longer than three days,” says Tony.
Tauranga MP Simon Bridges says Tony and Nick's presence in Tauranga on the same day is a happy coincidence.
'It's bit of a laugh. I think it's nice to think we have the two top politicians here,” says Simon.
Simon jokes he thought there might have been a reshuffle that elevated him into Cabinet but says he didn't think the acting Prime Minister was too happy with that prospect.
'It's always good to be around the most senior politicians,” says Simon.