NZ Election 2026

Christchurch Central electorate

Christchurch Central covers much of inner Christchurch as well as bits from adjoining suburbs such as Sydenham, Beckenham, and Richmond. The electorate has been held by Labour’s Duncan Webb since 2017, who won re-election with 15,553 votes in 2023. National won the party vote in 2023 with 31%, followed by Labour at 28%. In 2011, preliminary results saw a tie on election night, with special votes eventually giving the electorate to National for the first time in its history by just 2 votes.

Christchurch Central candidates

Explore the candidates in your area

Kahu Carter

Green Party

Eden Skipper

Opportunity Party

Mark Arneil

NZ First

George Hampton

Labour Party

Blair Anderson

Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party

Dale Stephens

National Party

Christian van der Pump

ACT Party

Greg Byrnes

Alliance Party

Mark Arneil

NZ First

Why I'm standing

I'm standing as an NZ First candidate because I care deeply about New Zealand and the future we leave for our children. I'm a proud New Zealander and believe patriotism, personal responsibility, strong families, social conservatism and respect for our traditions are foundations of a healthy and prosperous society. I'm passionate about putting New Zealanders first, supporting our communities, restoring confidence and accountability from government. Together, we can build a stronger, more united New Zealand.

About me

Having lived in the electorate for over 10 years, I have a genuine connection to our community and understand the issues that matter to local people. My diverse management career, including local government and governance roles, has developed my leadership, decision-making, accountability, and problem-solving skills. I bring practical experience, integrity, and energy. I will listen, speak up, and work hard to deliver results and ensure our community has a strong voice.

My priorities

  1. Improve road infrastructure including incorporating rail.
  2. Finish the hospital and ensure it's fully staffed.
  3. Get Christ Church Cathedral open. It's the catalyst to unlock millions of dollars in CBD investment.

Get across the policies, candidates and parties

Don’t know who to vote for? Policy.nz is the complete guide to the 2026 general election. Compare the parties, candidates and policies to see where you stand.

Policies

Compare the parties’ positions on the key issues this election

Candidates

See the electorate candidates running in your local area

Parties

Learn about each political party, its leaders and candidate list

Things to know...

Your two votes shape New Zealand’s next parliament. You need to be enrolled to vote.

Read explainer

  • Enrol to vote by Sunday 25 October

    You need to be enrolled before you can vote. You can enrol online at vote.nz.

  • Voting day is Saturday 7 November

    Head to your nearest voting place on the day, or vote early from 26 October.

  • You get two votes

    One for a party (the party vote) and one for a person in your area (the electorate vote).

  • Your party vote is the most powerful

    It decides how many seats each party gets in Parliament. That’s what Policy helps you figure out.