Electoral officials in Dunedin have confirmed Dave Cull is victor in the mayoralty race.
He will replace sitting mayor Peter Chin, a lawyer and opera singer who has served two terms in office.
Figures from the Dunedin returning officer give Mr Cull a big margin.
After preferences have been accounted for under the Single Transferable Vote system, Dave Cull has a majority of more than 8000 over Mr Chin.
Mr Cull is a sitting councillor and has long been a presenter and writer, mainly on lifestyle and home improvement projects.
Mr Cull says he believed the Dunedin voters wanted change and is grateful they accepted his mandate.