Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger announces re-election bid with focus on affordability and progress
Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger has confirmed he will seek re-election in October’s local government elections, promising to keep rates as low as possible while driving forward key projects to secure the city’s long-term growth.
Under the campaign slogan “Delivering Today for a Better Tomorrow,” Mauger outlined his vision to build on his track record of practical achievements while ensuring Christchurch thrives as a vibrant, sustainable city.
Acknowledging the financial pressures on residents, Mauger stressed the importance of balancing affordability with progress.
“While our rate increases are some of the lowest in the country, I know that many people want Council to prioritise keeping costs down,” he said. “We need to continue finding savings without compromising essential services, and I’m committed to ensuring we spend ratepayer money wisely.”
Mauger said upcoming consultations for the Draft Annual Plan in February will give ratepayers a chance to voice their priorities. “It’s their money, and we need to deliver value,” he said.
Mauger pointed to Christchurch’s growing reputation as a thriving city. “Christchurch was named New Zealand’s most vibrant city last year and the ‘capital of cool.’ Our central city is buzzing, businesses are flourishing, and new industries like aerospace and hydrogen are establishing themselves here,” he said.
Mauger highlighted key achievements, including the Council’s $85 million insurance settlement for the Bromley Wastewater Treatment Plant, which paved the way for new infrastructure to reduce emissions and fix long-standing odour issues. Other successes include keeping ownership of the city’s three waters and advancing One NZ Stadium, which remains on budget and scheduled for completion in April next year.
“Christchurch is a city on the rise, and these projects are critical for ensuring a bright future,” he said.
Mauger said his campaign centres on six key priorities:
1.Make rates affordable
2.Lead a stable council
3.Deliver essential services well
4.Protect and enhance the environment
5.Future-proof water infrastructure
6.Complete major infrastructure projects on time
In addition to keeping rates affordable, Mauger pledged to continue leading a stable, independent council focused on community needs rather than party politics. He also emphasised the importance of collaboration, highlighting partnerships with the government and local organisations to fund critical projects like the Pages Road bridge.
Mauger reiterated his commitment to delivering essential services efficiently, pointing
Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger
to initiatives such as roving footpath repair crews that have significantly improved maintenance without unnecessary costs.
As a key member of the Canterbury Mayoral Forum, Mauger championed the recently launched Canterbury Climate Partnership Plan, which aims to address climate risks and build resilience through local collaboration.
“We’re working on reducing emissions, improving resilience, and promoting nature-based solutions. These actions will ensure a sustainable, low-emissions future for our city,” he said.
Mauger reaffirmed his dedication to completing key infrastructure projects, including the Bromley Wastewater Treatment Plant, the Court Theatre’s new central city home, and the Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre, New Zealand’s largest aquatic and indoor leisure facility.
“These projects will not only enhance our city but also future-proof it for generations to come,” he said.
Mauger concluded by asking residents to re-elect him, saying, “We’ve made great progress, but there’s more to do. I’m committed to continuing this work to make Christchurch and Banks Peninsula an even better place to live, work, and play.”
With a focus on affordability, collaboration, and sustainable growth, Mauger’s re-election campaign aims to secure Christchurch’s future while delivering meaningful results for its residents.
