Long-time Banks Peninsula resident and well-known local media personality Dave Dunlay has officially announced his candidacy for the Christchurch City Council, representing Banks Peninsula.
In an interview today, Dunlay, who has lived in both Lyttelton and French Farm for the past 30 years, says his decision to stand comes from a deep connection to the community — and a desire to tackle the rising cost of living, particularly skyrocketing rates.
“We love this area — we’ve raised our kids here, run businesses, and become part of the fabric of this community,” Dunlay said. “But what really pushed me was a conversation with a mate of mine over a beer. I was complaining about the rates bill stuck on my fridge, and he told me, ‘Stop moaning and do something about it.’ So, that’s what I’m doing.”
Dunlay says controlling rates is his number one priority if elected.
“We’ve got to treat the council’s budget like a household budget — spend only what you can afford. There’s too much being spent on the nice-to-haves instead of the must-haves, and it’s people on fixed and low incomes who are hurting the most,” he said.
Beyond rates, Dunlay identified two other pressing local issues: boy racers and road safety.
“Boy racers are causing havoc through Governors Bay, Gebbies Valley, Lyttelton, and other parts of the Peninsula. It’s noisy, dangerous, and a constant frustration for locals. We need to work with police and community groups to crack down on it,” Dunlay said.
He also stressed the need to protect the Peninsula’s lifeline roads, which many communities rely on. “For many, there’s just one road in and out. Keeping those roads safe and accessible is absolutely vital.”
Dunlay also reflected on how Lyttelton’s creative community has struggled since the earthquakes, with empty spaces left where once vibrant local businesses thrived.
“We need to find ways to bring those spaces back to life — arts, crafts, markets — something that gives locals and visitors a reason to spend time and money here again,” he added.
Dunlay wants to bolster local tourism, promoting Banks Peninsula’s natural beauty, ecology, and environment while supporting local businesses.
“There’s also the night sky initiative in Akaroa, which hasn’t gone anywhere for a while. Managing our lighting so we can all enjoy the incredible starry skies is something I’d really love to help push forward,” he said.
With the Christchurch mayoral race heating up, Dunlay says he is focused squarely on Banks Peninsula’s interests, regardless of who becomes mayor.
“Whether it’s Sarah Templeton or Phil Mauger — my job is to represent Banks Peninsula. Both have experience, and my role is to work with whoever is there, always through the lens of what’s best for our community,” he said.
Many locals know Dunlay from his 30-year media career in Christchurch radio, but for the last five years, he and his family have been running an eco-glamping business in French Farm.
“We host guests from all over the world, showcase the Akaroa Harbour, the night sky — and yes, I’m now officially a BBQ pitmaster,” he laughed.Dunlay says while leaving behind his lifestyle business would be tough, serving his community is too important to ignore.
“Banks Peninsula is full of amazing, diverse, and passionate people. I want to be their voice around the council table and help shape a future we can all be proud of.”
