Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger has started the new council term with optimism and confidence in his leadership team, joined by newly appointed Deputy Mayor Victoria Henstock.
In an interview with Chris Lynch, Mauger said he was excited to begin a fresh chapter for the council.
“It’s absolutely wonderful,” he said. “There was nothing wrong with Pauline’s work, but I decided to go with Victoria and I’m very happy with the decision. We get on like a house on fire.”
Henstock, who was first elected to council in 2022, said she was humbled by the appointment and eager to contribute to what she described as a defining period for the city.
“I haven’t stopped smiling since I was sworn in,” she said. “This is an incredible opportunity, and I’m grateful for the trust and confidence Phil has shown in me. I’m ready to roll my sleeves up.”
She said she believed Christchurch was on the verge of a new era of growth and vibrancy, pointing to major developments that are reshaping the city’s future.
“I think we’re a city on the rise. We’re reading about Christchurch every other day in the media, and it feels like we’re on the cusp of something big. I’d call it a golden era. It’s a great time to be in governance,” she said.
Henstock said large-scale projects such as Te Kaha, Parakiore, and ongoing investment in events infrastructure would transform the city into a regional leader.
“We’re about to become a major force in the events industry across Australasia,” she said. “People will be flocking here for major sporting and cultural events. I’m not sure the people of Christchurch fully appreciate just how exciting this time is for our city.”
Mauger agreed, saying it was encouraging to see positive recognition for Christchurch from outside the region.
“It’s nice to see people from Auckland and elsewhere saying good things about Christchurch,” he said. “It reminds us how good our city really is.”
When asked what had made him most proud in recent months, Mauger highlighted Kōwhai Park, where solar energy investment is transforming the city’s sustainability efforts.
“There are 300 hectares of solar panels being installed there,” he said. “It’s impressive, and the council owns land right next to it, about 170 hectares, where I’d love to see us do the same. It’s about making Christchurch more resilient, because the price of power is only going one way. We might as well use the land we already have.”
Henstock said her immediate focus was on supporting the mayor, strengthening council collaboration, and ensuring efficient use of ratepayer funds.
“I didn’t come in with a personal agenda,” she said. “My first priority is to support Phil. His diary is absolutely packed, and I’m here to take some of that load. Each morning I walk into his office and say, ‘Hey boss, how can I help you today?’ That’s how we intend to carry on.”
She said fostering strong relationships among councillors was also essential for a productive term.
“I think the secret to success this term is our ability to work well together,” she said. “Good, positive relationships will underpin everything. We’ve already had a great start, and I’m confident that by working collaboratively we’ll be able to achieve a lot.”
Henstock added that efficiency and accountability were also top of mind.
“For me, it’s about good governance, getting value for money, and being responsive to the community,” she said. “Good governance means listening more, talking less, and doing more.”
Mauger said he shared that approach and believed the council had the right people to deliver on its goals.
“Victoria brings a lot of energy and enthusiasm to the role,” he said. “We’ve got a strong team and a clear focus. I think people are going to see a much more effective organisation this term.”
Chris Lynch said both leaders appeared united in their approach and genuinely motivated to continue Christchurch’s momentum.
“It’s an exciting time for the city,” he said. “Christchurch is going to be better off with both of you in leadership roles.”
