Tenby Powell has resigned from his position as mayor of Tauranga, effective immediately.

At a meeting in council today, Powell publicly called for the Minister of Local Government to appoint a commissioner to replace what he calls a 'dysfunctional council”.

Powell tendered his resignation at the meeting that was being held to discuss the need for the council to appoint a Crown Manager, which passed 5-5 with Powell using his casting vote.

Tauranga City Council Chief Executive Marty Grenfell confirms he has received Powell's resignation.

He says the Mayor has cited a number of reasons for his decision and had expressed the hope that the resolution adopted by the Council today, to ask the Minister of Local Government to appoint a Crown Manager, would facilitate the best possible outcomes for the city.

'The council executive team is heartened by his expression of support and confidence in staff to continue running the business of Council professionally and deliver on the needs of our fast-growing city.

'We wish him well and hope he will have a speedy recovery from his forthcoming prostate cancer treatment.”

Grenfell says he will liaise with the Minister of Local Government with regard to the potential appointment of a Crown Manager and seek guidance on any matters which may arise as a result of the Mayor's resignation.

Powell is the second elected council member to resign, following the departure of former councillor Jako Abrie earlier this year.

Abrie's resignation means that a by-election will need to be held.

Nominations for candidates open on November 24.

Electoral Officer Warwick Lampp says that, in practice, people could already visit the Electoral Commission's website to check their enrolment details and enrol to vote.

'Most people will already be enrolled, as the same electoral roll was used for last month's general election.

'If you're not sure about your enrolment, I'd encourage you to visit the Electoral Commission's website to make sure you're able to have your say when voting starts.”

Also on November 24, nominations will open for people wishing to stand for council in the by-election.