Re-election interviews: Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger

In October, local elections will be held across Christchurch. Chris Lynch Media has contacted all current Christchurch City Councillors to ask why they are seeking re-election. Each councillor was invited to respond to a series of questions about their record, priorities, and vision for the city. Here’s what Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger had to say:

1. Why have you decided to stand again?

We have so much momentum going at the moment and I don’t want that to slow down. I have a clear vision for where I want to take the city. We have made some really good progress, and I think the next three years are going to be critical for the long-term
growth of our city

2. What are the most pressing issues facing the city right now?

Getting our rate increases down and our finances under control are the biggest issues, especially with the potential for a rates cap. We must be careful with our spending after all it is ratepayers’ money we spend. We also need to plan for how we manage the long-term growth of our city.

3. If re-elected, what are your top three priorities for the next term?

1. Keeping rates affordable for all Christchurch residents
2. Growing the city’s economy
3. Making our traffic flow better

4. What has the Council done well this term, and where has it fallen short?

Some of the transport projects have fallen well short of my expectations. That’s an area we need to improve. But we’ve done well in other key areas, especially the recovery from major issues like the Bromley sewage plant. Shifting to the activated sludge system is a huge environmental win for Christchurch. And we’re continuing to deliver the stadium project on time and on budget, which is something I’m really proud of.

5. How would you describe your approach to representing Christchurch?

As an independent mayor I represent all of Christchurch, not just one group or sector. I make sure I am listening to a cross section of community leaders across Christchurch and Banks Peninsula to ensure I understand local issues. Chrissy and I spend most evenings out at community events, and if we’re not on the
sidelines of a grandkid’s rugby game on the weekend, we’re out meeting locals, learning from volunteers, and staying connected to what matters. Being visible and listening to people is key, that’s how you stay grounded in the role.

6. What has been the most challenging part of your role as mayor?

The learning curve has been steep, especially realising how slowly things can move. You can’t always fix something the day the problem comes up, and that’s been frustrating at times. But I’ve learned to work with the system and navigate it better so we can get things done. I also have wanted to get more stuff done, but unfortunately I have not always had the support around the council table.

Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger wearing his Mayoral Chains

7. What achievement are you most proud of from your time in office?

Keeping the stadium project on time and on budget, and introducing the activated sludge process to the treatment plant rebuild, both are significant milestones. The stadium is a major investment in our city’s future, and the new sludge system brings massive environmental benefits for Christchurch.

8. What would you do differently if given another term?

I just want more time. I’ve got a lot more I want to achieve for Christchurch. The only thing I’d change is having more hours in the day to do it all.

9. What’s currently on your Spotify playlist?

I don’t actually have Spotify on my phone but I listen to a wide range of music when I’m driving.

10. What’s one fun or unexpected fact about you most people don’t know?

Most people wouldn’t know this, but I once bought a World War 2 Spitfire aircraft engine, and then decided to build a race car around it. I’ve raced that car several times now, and people love the sound of it roaring around the track. It’s loud, fast, and a whole lot of fun, a real passion project that combines my love of engines, history, and a bit of Kiwi ingenuity.

11. Best café and best restaurant in Christchurch?

There are so many great places across Christchurch that it’s hard to pick just one. But if you twisted my arm, I’d probably say Whiskey Fiddle. Chrissy and I love trying different spots around the city and we make the most of every chance we get to support local.

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