Robert Bruce, who had previously been the MP for Rangitikei between 1884 and 1890, won the by-election narrowly.

In 1890 he contested the election for the Waitotara electorate in South Taranaki, but was beaten by incumbent George Hutchison.

[4] The by-election was much closer than what was expected as Bruce won by 61 votes, a margin of less than 3%.

[5] After the election results were announced at the Club Hotel in Marton both candidates gave speeches and enjoyed a whisky together.

[6] Bruce would never go on to win another election, as he temporarily retired in 1893 and lost to Stevens in the Manawatu electorate in both 1896 and 1899.