Former Christchurch City Councillor Mike Davidson has been announced as the Green Party’s candidate for Ilam.

The Ilam electorate was established in 1996 and held by National MP Gerry Brownlee until the 2020 election when he lost to Labour’s Sarah Pallett.

Davidson served on the city council from 2016 to 2022, during which time he chaired the Urban Development and Transport Committee and played a significant role in the development of Christchurch’s cycleways network.

The former two-term Papanui ward councillor lost his seat on the Council to newcomer Victoria Henstock.

“I’m honoured to represent the Green Party in Ilam, a region with a rich history of supporting our values,” Davidson said.

“Ilam is home to the University of Canterbury, Pūtaringamotu Riccarton Bush, and communities who are eager to make progress on climate change, inequality, and the well-being of our natural environment.”

Davidson emphasised the importance of creating urban environments that are people-friendly, green, and resilient to the impacts of climate change.

He said he envisions a future where walking, biking, and public transportation are the norm, and where housing is warm, dry, and affordable.

“The only way to make that happen is with more Green MPs around the decision-making table,” he added.

Davidson also highlighted the Green Party’s track record of pushing for change, pointing to the Carbon Zero Act, the Clean Car Discount scheme, and the ban on conversion therapy practices.

Dr Hamish Campbell, a medical researcher, was selected as National’s candidate for Ilam.