Former Greater Wellington regional council chairman Ian Buchanan decided not to stand for a second term after it became clear he did not have the numbers to continue in the top job.

"I am hugely disappointed," he said yesterday. He had been keen to continue "but the decision was taken out of my hands".

Mr Buchanan, who is now relegated to being Wairarapa's sole representative, had chaired the council since 2004.

When four of the five newly elected councillors indicated their support for former Wellington mayor Fran Wilde, the writing was on the wall for him.

Mr Buchanan, who has served on the council since 1992, said he planned to remain active. But he was unsure what role he would have on the council.

Ms Wilde said she put her name forward "because a number of people asked me to". Her decision to stand was not a criticism of Mr Buchanan. "Ian was perfectly fine. But I'm regarded as quite proactive. I've got lots of experience in fighting major issues."

Peter Glensor was elected unopposed as deputy chairman. He is also chairman of Hutt Valley District Health Board.

- © Fairfax NZ News