Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell has publicly declared her concern about rival Robert Lee potentially being re-elected, criticising his behaviour and views. Tapsell’s rebuke came shortly after a question about Rainbow Storytime led to Lee being booed by members of the audience. A Rotorua Chamber of Pride representative asked candidates how they would ensure any future Rainbow Storytime events could take place safely. After calling the Rainbow Storytime “controversial”, Lee was shouted down by members of the audience. Tapsell apologised for the council’s lack of leadership over the cancelled Rainbow Storytime event.