Christchurch City Councillor Sam MacDonald has been re-elected unopposed in the Waimairi Ward after nominations closed for the upcoming local body elections.
Candidate nominations closed at 12 noon on 1 August 2025.
Under New Zealand’s Local Electoral Act, when only one candidate is nominated for an elected position and no challenger appears by the close of nominations, that individual is declared elected unopposed, without the need for a vote.
MacDonald said while he was grateful for the show of confidence, he had hoped for a contest.
“Democracy is always stronger when there’s a healthy debate of ideas,” he said.
He believed the uncontested result showed strong community support for the direction he had taken during his term.
That included focusing on sustainably low rates, “getting back to basics,” opposing the proliferation of speed bumps across the city, and improving the council’s approachability.
Despite the lack of an opponent, MacDonald said his campaign was still in full swing, with more than 30,000 flyers printed, a public meeting booked, and signs going up shortly.
“You’ll still see plenty of me out and about, supporting strong community board candidates and working to help re-elect Mayor Phil Mauger,” he said.
MacDonald said the current council lacked support for the mayor and he would be encouraging voters to back “sensible candidates who want to rein in spending, stop the war on cars, and get back to basics.”
He thanked residents for their trust and said he was looking forward to continuing to deliver for the Waimairi community over the next three years.
Hornby Councillor Mark Peters was also unopposed.
He told Chris Lynch Media he was humbled by the support he received across Hornby and said he could focus his time more effectively serving the community rather than campaigning
Harewood Councillor Aaron Keown was also unopposed.