Phil Mauger Re-Election

Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger is seeking another three years in the top job, saying he wants to keep building on the progress the city has made.

He’s campaigning on a platform of steady growth, affordability, and getting the basics right like core infrastructure, the environment, and council stability.

According to Mauger, it’s about keeping the momentum going and making sure Christchurch remains a great place to live, work, and study.

Mauger outside Te Kaha Stadium

A City in Transition

 Christchurch is turning a corner. From a struggling rebuilt city to one that’s now being seen as a place of opportunity and innovation, he says things are shifting in the right direction.

“There’s a real sense of momentum now,”

Mauger says. “We’re seeing more businesses moving into the central city, Student numbers at the University of Canterbury are strong, and we’re attracting exciting new industries like aerospace and hydrogen energy.”

He believes these trends are creating real opportunities, especially for younger people—more jobs, new career paths, and a stronger economy that can support the lifestyle many in Christchurch are looking for.

What He’s Campaigning On

If re-elected, Mauger says he’ll focus on six key priorities:

1. Keeping rates (council bills) affordable

2. Delivering the basics like roads, rubbish, and public spaces

3. Upgrading Christchurch’s ageing water infrastructure

4. Protecting the environment and investing in sustainability

5. Maintaining stable and effective council leadership

6. Finishing major projects like the stadium on time and on budget

How This Could Benefit You

1. Lower rates mean more money back in your pocket

2. Delivering the basics like roads, rubbish, and public spaces means your daily life runs more smoothly, with clean streets, better transport, and places to hang out.

3. Upgrading Christchurch’s ageing water infrastructure helps keep your water clean, safe, and flowing reliably during dry summers or storms.

4. Protecting the environment and investing in sustainability helps create a greener, healthier city now and for future generations.

5. Maintaining stable and effective council leadership ensures decisions are made efficiently, with fewer delays and less political drama.

6. Finishing major projects like the stadium on time and on budget means you’ll see the benefits faster—like new jobs, events, and places to enjoy—without blowing the city’s

   budget (aka the rate payers money)

Cost of Living: A Top Concern

One of the biggest issues Mauger sees facing Christchurch is the cost of living, and he says skyrocketing rates make things even harder.

“Getting our rate increases down and our finances under control are the biggest issues, especially with the potential for a rate cap from the central government,” Mauger explains.

He says he wants to lead a council that’s smart about money—investing where it matters, but cutting back where it doesn’t.

“Affordability is key. We’ve got to build a future-ready Christchurch without putting more pressure on people’s pockets.”

Room for Improvement

Not everything has gone to plan. Mauger admits that some transport projects haven’t delivered what he hoped they would. “That’s something we’ve got to do better.”

he says. “Transport is essential—not just for reducing emissions, but for making life easier and more connected. We’ve got to get it right.”

He points to other big wins like the shift to a new activated sludge system at the Bromley sewage treatment plant, which he calls “a huge environmental win for Christchurch.”

And while the city faces challenges,

Mauger believes steady leadership, smart financial decisions, and sticking to the basics can keep Christchurch moving forward.

“Young people are choosing to stay here or move here. That tells me we’re doing something right. But now’s the time to lock in those gains and keep pushing ahead.”