"From the very beginning, this was a case of sour grapes and there was no merit to this claim," said Joyce. "The loyal team which ensured by re-election ran an up-front, excellent and positive campaign.

"As the Member for Bay of Islands, I thank the Returning Officer, the Deputy Returning Officer, the DRO’s and Poll Clerks who did their job very professionally, with integrity, and, as proven by the Supreme Court, without fault.

"The Supreme Court made two significant rulings in our favor which reinforced the fact that all the procedures and policies were adhered to by the election officials. When the solicitors for Mr. Monaghan received and reviewed the decisions, they were aware that the final result was inevitable. It wasn’t a case of Mr. Monaghan not wanting to continue his aggravation of the election officials and 147 voters. He had lost and he had to accept this loss.

"I thank the people of Bay of Islands for their continued support and commitment. I will continue to fight for the needs and concerns of the Bay of Islands. I thank them for the privilege."