Two well-known figures in Christchurch’s east will return to local representation after being elected unopposed to the Coastal Ward Community Board.
Incumbent Alex Hewison and former board chair Kim Money were confirmed as the successful candidates, without a vote being required.
Hewison said it was a surprise result but he was grateful for the opportunity to continue representing the area he has long called home.
“It has been an incredible privilege to represent the ward I grew up in and still call home,” Hewison said.
“I believe elections are a valuable opportunity to contest ideas, hold elected members to account, and set out a vision for the years ahead, and that’s exactly what I had set out to do.”
“While being elected unopposed comes as a surprise, I’m incredibly grateful for the support and conversations I’ve had with residents throughout this campaign and over the past three years.”
Hewison said he looked forward to continuing the work already underway and building on progress made.
Kim Money, who previously chaired the board from 2016 to 2019, said she was humbled by the outcome.
“It’s official, I have been elected unopposed,” she said.
“Oh my goodness, family, friends and community, what a bizarre, yet in my opinion, miraculous few days it’s been.”
Money said she had only just submitted her nomination the day before nominations closed.
“Campaign mode was about to begin, or so I thought! However, I am excited to once again have the opportunity to serve you and represent you.”
She thanked those who encouraged her to stand and acknowledged the broader challenges facing local democracy.
“There’s also a sense of sadness. The low number of nominations reflects a broader concern – a lack of trust and interest in local body elections. I believe this speaks to a wider disconnection with Council processes.”
“We’ve got work to do to rebuild trust, provide hope, and ensure a prosperous future for our ward. There’s a bit of momentum there, but there’s still much to achieve.”
Money said she would be supporting Jo Zervos for the Coastal Ward councillor role, Phil Mauger for mayor, and David East for Environment Canterbury.
She said her decision to return was driven by frustration with the pace of progress in the area.
“Progress in our ward has been frustratingly slow over the past six years. That’s why I’ve decided to stand again, to help bring focus, urgency, and results.”
Money pointed to previous successes during her leadership, including the He Puna Taimoana hot pools, the beachside playground and the reinstatement of the Residential Unit Overlay in coastal areas.
