Michael Bennett

My principal place of residence is not in the Christchurch West/Ōpuna Constituency area.

I am standing because Canterbury deserves leadership that listens, learns, and delivers — for our environment, our communities, and our future.

I bring deep knowledge of environmental management, strong relationships across Canterbury, and a proven ability to unite people and tackle challenges from multiple perspectives.

With a farming background, I understand the pressures on our land, water, and communities. My career spans Regional Councils, Federated Farmers, and now project management with catchment groups.

I hold a Master of Commerce and am undertaking a PhD at Lincoln University.

I stand for a united, effective Council which communicates openly, and builds trust — as one team, and in partnership with the community.

Canterbury needs smarter regulation that empowers innovation, responsibility, and drives real environmental improvements - for example multi-property agreements for land, water, and biodiversity.

I also seek safer, more secure public transport and climate-resilient infrastructure and flood protection.