Twenty-seven year old Jayden Cromb was sworn in at the Vincent Community Board (VCB) inaugural meeting in Alexandra.
A sixth-generation Central Otago resident, Mr Cromb said he represented the younger, Māori voice to the council.
He has worked in the social service sector for five years as well and chairs the Puna Rangatahi Youth Trust.
The father of three is also involved in the governance of a number of local charities.
It was an emotional moment for Mr Cromb as his work colleagues from Uruuruwhenua performed a waiata after he gave his declaration of office.
Mr Cromb was also appointed VCB deputy chairman alongside new chairwoman Tamah Alley.
The pair have worked together previously through their involvement in the region’s social service sector.
Mr Cromb said he was looking forward to getting in to the new role.
"It feels great, and a really big privilege to be able to support the board, and Tamah, and the rest of the community."
He said he was surprised when he was initially approached to see if he would be interested in being nominated for the number two seat.
"It was a bit of a shock. I looked at the Local Government New Zealand website, looked at the role and thought ‘that’s something I can do to support the board at this time’."
Tamah Alley was appointed community board chairwoman, nominated by former chairman Martin McPherson.
Cr Alley said it was "very exciting" to step in to the role.
"There are some big challenges ahead but also some big opportunities for our community."
Elected members Roger Browne, Tony Hammington, Dai Johns, Martin McPherson and Tracy Paterson were also sworn in at the meeting.
The next meeting is scheduled for November 22.
