Christchurch City Council has released its 2025 Pre-election Report ahead of the local government elections on 11 October.

The report provides an overview of the strategic, financial, and governance context that will shape Council decision-making over the next three years.

Read the report here.

Developed to support informed participation in the democratic process, the report provides key insights for both prospective candidates and voters.

It outlines organisational priorities, financial performance and forecasts, major capital projects, and the key challenges facing Christchurch and Banks Peninsula.

“Whether you're considering standing for election or choosing who you’d like to represent your community, this report provides the key information to help you make an informed decision,” says Chief Executive Mary Richardson.

“It presents a clear picture of the environment in which future Council decisions will be made.”

As the second-largest local authority in New Zealand, Christchurch City Council plays a pivotal role in delivering essential services and shaping long-term outcomes for the city and the wider region.

The organisation manages billions of dollars in public assets and provides core services such as water supply, transport infrastructure, waste management, and community facilities.

Since the Canterbury earthquakes, Christchurch has undergone significant transformation. The city has re-emerged as a resilient and forward-focused urban centre, recognised nationally and internationally for its innovation, sustainability leadership, and vibrant community development.

“The next Council will have an important role in continuing this momentum,” Ms Richardson says.

“The decisions it makes over the next term will help shape how Christchurch grows, adapts, and meets the needs of its communities. Whether it's investing in infrastructure or addressing climate challenges, these choices will influence how we create a city that is sustainable, inclusive and affordable for current residents and generations to come.”

A Pre-election Report is required under the Local Government Act 2002 Section 99a and is prepared by the Chief Executive, independently of the elected Council.

Candidate nominations opened on 4 July, and close at noon on 1 August 2025.

Voting to elect the people who will sit on the Council and the six community boards for the next three years starts on 9 September and closes at noon on Saturday 11 October.

For more about the elections, including standing, enrolling and voting, visit ccc.govt.nz/elections