Emotions are running high for Ben Bell, a 23-year-old with no political experience, who has been elected Gore's new mayor.

An ecstatic Bell found out the news at about 4pm and said it was still sinking in.

"The mix of emotions has just increased really. I'm extremely humbled that the community has chosen me. I don't think the relief has quite kicked in yet. But what an exciting race."

The polling victory over incumbent Tracy Hicks makes Bell the youngest mayor in New Zealand's history.

Hutt City Mayor Campbell Barry, who previously held that title, speaks to Nick Mills on Wellington Mornings. 

LISTEN ABOVE