Environment Canterbury
Environment Canterbury is the regional council for Canterbury. It makes decisions about managing resources in the region, such as air, water, soil and the coastline. It also carries out plant and pest control, helps prepare for natural disasters, and is involved in regional transport. The council is made up of up to 16 councillors. are elected to represent constituencies (areas in the region), including two councillors from the Christchurch South/Ōwhanga constituency. Up to two councillors can be appointed by Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu. 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 Environment Canterbury election.
Environment Canterbury candidates
Explore the candidates in your area
Bill Kingston
Why I'm standing
I'm a Canterbury local who's passionate about the future of our region. I believe we need to plan for population growth and urban development in a way that protects our local food-producing soil so we maintain food security. Canterbury is a great place to live and people want to move here, we need to plan sensibly for growth so people can be housed, and also be fed.
About me
I have first-hand insight into the needs of both our rural and urban communities, having previously managed a family farm near Ashburton through the 80s downturn, and I've lived in Christchurch for 25 years. I'm actively involved in the community and have been a member of the Westmorland Residents Association committee for 23 years. I will bring experience, integrity, and common sense to ECAN, working to improve outcomes in Canterbury for you, the ratepayers.
My priorities
- Keep rates affordable through efficient spending and reducing the cost of doing business with ECan.
- Protect productive food-producing soil from development to ensure long-term local food security.
- Work with catchment and conservation groups to improve water quality and biodiversity.
Get across the policies, candidates and parties
Don’t know who to vote for? Policy.nz is the complete guide to the 2025 local elections. Compare the candidates and policies to see where you stand.
Mayor
Compare the mayoral candidates in your area
Local council
Compare the candidates for your city or district council
Regional council
Compare the candidates for your regional council
Local board
Compare the candidates for your local or community board