Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger has taken the top spot as New Zealand’s most popular big city mayor after a 19 point surge in approval this quarter.

It is the first time since June 2024 that Mauger has led the rankings.

The results are from the latest Taxpayers’ Union Curia poll, which measures the net approval ratings of Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown, Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger and Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau.

The Taxpayers’ Union Curia poll is based on monthly surveys of 15,000 adults across New Zealand.

Larger sample sizes for Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington allow for trend analysis over time. The poll has a maximum margin of error of plus or minus 0.6 percent.

Taxpayers’ Union spokesman James Ross said Mauger’s rise reflects public support for his stance on rates.

“Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger backed rates capping, and in that same period surged 19 points to become the most popular big city mayor. If that’s not an endorsement of rates capping, I don’t know what is,” Ross said.

“Local body elections are less than three months away. Any candidates looking to boost their appeal might do well to follow Mayor Mauger’s example by putting ratepayers’ needs front and centre.”

Ross also said Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown’s steady popularity reflects the city’s relatively low rates increases.

Taxpayers’ Union spokesman James Ross

“Mayor Brown remains steadily well liked, no doubt thanks to the fourth lowest rates hikes in the country over the last three years. And even Tory Whanau has seen a boost since announcing she’d step aside. All in all, everyone’s a winner this poll.”

Phil Mauger told chrislynchmedia.com “I never rely on polls. My focus remains on doing the best job I can for Christchurch and Banks Peninsula.

“I know that rate increases are hurting a lot of people and that is why I am committed to getting them down.  I think the poll might reflect how happy people are living in the best city in New Zealand, things are going very well for us. We have a local body election coming up in October and I urge all people to get out and vote.”

Mauger’s supporter Fendalton Councillor James Gough said “Phil’s popularity doesn’t come as a surprise.

Fendalton Councillor James Gough

“He’s visible, approachable, and not afraid to roll up his sleeves. Not everyone will always agree with his politics, but I think residents value a mayor who shows up and gets stuck in.

“The beauty of Phil is he isn’t overly interested in the political side of things, he just enjoys meeting people and getting stuff done.”

Waimairi Councillor Sam MacDonald

“I’m hoping he is re-elected for a second term,  Christchurch is on a roll, and we really do not want to become like Wellington and their challenges.”

Christchurch Labour List MP Tracey McLellan, who responded on behalf of Wigram MP Megan Woods, Christchurch Central MP Duncan Webb, and Christchurrch East MP Reuben Davidson said “as the Christchurch issues spokesperson, whether it’s the Crusaders, Tactix or Metropolitan Mayors, it’s always great to see Christchurch leading the pack.”

Harewood Councillor and Mauger supporter Aaron Keown said “no surprises for me as I believe Phil’s down to earth and no nonsense approach to the role has been much appreciated by the people of Christchurch.

Harewood Councillor Aaron Keown

When asked if this was electioneering by the Taxpayers Union, he said “it is only because they can see Phil has done his best to keep rate rises down as much as he can. Congrats Phil, your Dad would be proud mate.”

Innes Council Candidate and Community Board Member Ali Jones said “I like Phil. He is smart, can cut to the chase, works bloody hard, is proactive, has a great sense of humour and he’s a straight talker.

Innes Ward Community Board member Ali Jones

“If voters elect councillors, people who along with him understand that speed humps are not a one size fits all, who are focused on keeping rates down, fixing roads, getting traffic flowing, and spending sensibly, then this city will fly.”

Burwood Councillor Kelly Barber said “Any positive endorsement of our Mayor, our new stadium or our City and the excitement that’s building here is welcome, wherever it comes from.”

Burwood Councillor Kelly Barber

It follows more positive news for the council. Its annual Residents Survey results released in March showed  a significant rise in satisfaction levels with Council services.”

Christchurch residents’ overall satisfaction with the Council’s performance had risen by 7% over the past year.

Hornby Councillor Mark Peters said “Phil is very well thought of in our Christchurch community, he is seen as a Mayor of action getting things done, and is well respected by many for this.

No, I don’t see this as electioneering by Taxpayers Union, it is simply reporting it as it is and tells a clear story that our Mayor along with our fabulous City is well thought of, Christchurch is increasingly the place to be and has a fantastic Mayor too!”

Other councillors didn’t response to Chris Lynch Media’s request for comment.