Marlborough District was formed through the 1989 local government reform, when many counties and boroughs were amalgamated throughout New Zealand.

[5] Davidson was succeeded in her mayoralty by Gerald Hope, who served for one term (1998–2001).

[3] Hope became well known nationally in early 1998 for the disappearance of his daughter and her friend, a murder for which Scott Watson was convicted.

[6][7] Hope was successfully challenged by councillor Tom Harrison in 2001, who served one term until 2004.

[8] Alistair Sowman served one term on the district council from 2001 before being first elected mayor in 2004.