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Christchurch City Council supports the Government’s intention to simplify local government, reduce duplication, and strengthen regional performance.

“Canterbury needs a more integrated and efficient system capable of delivering long-term environmental, economic, and community outcomes. We believe it is the right time to be having this conversation and Christchurch is fully committed to engaging in it,” said Mayor Phil Mauger.

However, the Council has concerns about the proposed transitional Combined Territories Board (CTB) and the type of Regional Reorganisation Plan that such a transitional structure is likely to produce.

There is a risk that the CTB will generate a negotiated compromise shaped by the immediate interests, constraints, and political dynamics of existing councils – rather than an evidence-based proposal that delivers the best long-term solutions for our communities and ratepayers.

“Our city carries the economic, infrastructural, and population responsibilities of New Zealand’s second-largest urban centre and the South Island’s metropolitan anchor. We require a governance pathway capable of making decisions at pace and at scale to support the people who live and work across our city every day,” he said.

Staff have recommended the Council consider two credible governance options:

  1. A Christchurch Unitary Council: integrating territorial and regional functions into one accountable authority.
  2. A Greater Christchurch Metropolitan Model: establishing Christchurch, Selwyn, and Waimakariri as a single metropolitan authority.

These options would enable integrated planning across transport, water, land use, climate, and environmental management, while providing greater accountability, efficiency and clarity in service delivery, and enable more coherent long-term investment.

“With both urban and rural communities contributing to Canterbury’s identity and economy, future governance arrangements must recognise that urban and rural communities often face different challenges and priorities,” Mayor Mauger said.