Young Candidates Bid for Halswell Council Seat

Dylan Smart

Why it matters

The reason this matters is  because Dylan Smart’s candidacy represents more than just a single person running for office; it highlights the importance and growth of youth engagement in the political landscape bringing fresh perspectives to the council table.

Halswell resident Dylan Smart has entered the race for Christchurch’s Halswell Ward, formally announcing his intention to stand for both Council and Community Board in this year’s local body elections.

One of the youngest candidates this year at 21, Smart says he’s running because he’s fed up with Council decisions that he believes are out of touch with locals.

He also wants to prove that age is no barrier and to be part of a new generation of local leaders, emphasising practical solutions and community-focused decision-making. He says he is ready to bring fresh ideas and a focus on the issues that matter most to residents.”

Smart is campaigning on lower rates, better basic services, and stronger local decision-making. He’s against over-intensifying suburbs, arguing that  new housing should go into the central city instead of shading people’s backyards.

“We want action, accountability, and leadership that reflects our values. While our city should be moving forward, for many it feels as though we are slipping behind”.

Smart says he is committed to making sure local voices are heard and that future planning meets the needs of residents of all ages, from families to young people and older community members. 

How could this benefit you?

Lower rates → eases pressure on household budgets, leaving families with more money for everyday expenses.  

Better basic services → ensures roads, rubbish collection, parks, and other essentials are reliable and well-maintained, improving daily quality of life.

Stronger local decision-making → gives communities more influence over council choices, so residents feel heard and can shape outcomes in their area.

Housing in the central city instead of suburbs → helps protect the character, sunlight, and green space of established neighbourhoods, while also supporting a more vibrant and revitalised city centre.

While it might be a two horse race, Smart is going head to head with incumbent Councillor Andrei Moore who won the seat by a landslide in the 2022 election. But like all elections it will be up to the Halswell resident to decide who they want to represent them at the council table.