Meet the young candidates hoping to bring next generation voices into council.

In this year’s local election, two hopeful youths are throwing their hat in the ring, aiming to bring a “fresh perspective” to council discussions.

At just 21 and 22, Dylan Smart and Xaiver Dickason would be a full decade younger than the current youngest councillor, Tyla Harrison-Hunt. Both agree students need to be paying close attention to the political climate right now.

Dickason, who has lived in Fendalton for the past decade, recently completed a Masters in International Relations and Diplomacy at UC.

Four weeks into the campaign period he has already knocked on over 1,000 doors, speaking to residents about what they want to see in Fendalton. 

“It’s really been my favourite part of the campaign so far, getting the opportunity to talk to people and to listen and hear what sort of concerns are on people’s minds.”

He added it is important to show up and let people challenge your ideas.

Image supplied.

For Dickason, a key issue students should care about is transport.

“Christchurch City Council is responsible for maintaining our roads and footpaths, expanding our cycle-way network to increase safety, and (along with Environment Canterbury) improving our public transport network” he said. This is a transport network many students rely on to get to and from campus.

He understands why students are often disengaged with politics, though notes action from students will result in government change and engagement.

If elected, Dickason wants to prioritise upgrading Christchurch’s water infrastructure, pointing to ageing water pipes.

“It’s been underinvested in for such a long time, whether its stormwater, waste water or drinking water. It is in need for repair,” he said.

Dickason’s inspiration to enter politics came during his involvement in regional youth leadership and a Parliament advisory group.

“I was 13 [and] I turned up to one of their events [and] by the end of it I decided I would be studying political science at university,” he said.

Dylan Smart who is standing for council and the community board for Halswell, has also been privy to opportunities to engage in youth politics early, including an internship with Christchurch City Council. 

Smart’s campaign is rooted in frustration, as he feels as if Christchurch is not reaching its full potential. 

"I have been talking to councillors and they all feel that Christchurch is on the rise, but if you [are] talking to anyone else… no one really feels that.”

Currently finishing his politics degree, Smart said his academic work has given him a theoretical understanding of urban policy, but what drives him is community.

Smart, showing the new housing, what all used to be farmland. Photo: Aimee Muller

No matter your political stance, both Smart and Dickason stress the importance of using your voice. Voting for the person who represents you can shape real change on the issue that matter.