Mayor of Christchurch

The mayor is the leader of the council. Their job is to promote a vision for the city and lead the development of the council’s plans, policies and budget. The mayor appoints the deputy mayor, establishes committees for particular topics, and appoints chairs for those committees. This is a first past the post (FPP) election, so you vote by ticking the name of your preferred candidate on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the Christchurch City Council mayoral election.

Mayor of Christchurch candidates

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Mark Chirnside

Chirny for Mayor

Why I'm standing

I believe we need new people in local politics, more energetic people in local politics, and more people participating. I think we need a young and dynamic mayor who has a real stake in the future of this city as it grows and intensifies.

About me

I know a lot of people from a lot of walks of life in the community. I see competing factions in our city, and I'm friends with people across the spectrum of those factions. I believe I can work in good faith with people on different sides of an issue because while we might not agree, I come to find solutions. I come with no agenda or ulterior motive, and people know that about me.

My priorities

  1. Set a target for voter turnout at the 2025 election. We need more people engaging in local politics.
  2. Introduce direct accountability measures for council to compensate residents for council failures.
  3. Support intensification to transition Christchurch into a bigger, more efficient city.

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