Policies

Compare the parties’ positions on the key issues this election. Explore their policies and see how closely they align with your own views and priorities.

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Start by selecting a broad policy topic that you’re interested in exploring.

Environment

Local governments play a central role in protecting the environment, reducing waste and safeguarding biodiversity. The worsening state of New Zealand’s lakes and rivers is a major challenge for local councils, which work with regional councils in the management of water resources in their area.

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Narrow your selection by choosing a specific area within your chosen topic. Select the policies you want to explore, pick your favourites and view your results when you’re ready.

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  • Back efforts to restore native habitats in the city and hills and make Banks Peninsula pest-free.

  • Ensure that Christchurch meets its Urban Forest Plan targets of increasing canopy cover across all parks by 40% by 2070.

  • Protect Christchurch and Banks Peninsula's waterways by reducing runoff, contaminants and sediment build-up.

  • Promote restoring more natural environments along waterways and the Port Hills including pest and weed control and rubbish management.

  • Promote that Christchurch city has stunning natural landscapes that all who live here can enjoy free or at very little cost.

  • Recognise and promote the status of the estuary as a node of the East Asia Australasian migratory bird flyway due to its very special and valuable nature.

  • Expand green infrastructure by increasing tree canopy and continuing predator-free work in the Port Hills to strengthen biodiversity.

  • Protect the estuary by safeguarding important habitats, preserving wetlands and supporting restoration projects.

  • Protect the Ōpāwaho River and local waterways through supporting restoration projects and partnerships with the Estuary Trust.

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.

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