Meates has been CEO for 12 years and resigned in 2020 amid tensions between senior management and CDHB.
“There are many short-term challenges facing the council, but there is a strong need for a clear direction for the future of Christchurch,” he said.
“It is important to focus now on issues such as sustainability, growth, the environment, the view of cities and the Banks Peninsula in 10 and 20 years, and what jobs and businesses we want to attract.
“Christchurch needs to be a great place to live, connect, collaborate and innovate.”
He said on behalf of the mayor that he would bring a wealth of experience in both public and private leadership.
“I understand the greatest role of empowering the community and leading a diverse and effective council on enabling them to do their best.
“It is also to ensure that the best decisions are made for the people of Christchurch and that those decisions are based on good information.
“There are pressing issues with the next council, but our goal is to make our city a better place for the future.”
“I’m aiming for Christchurch. I can do better than the basics.”
The current mayor, Lianne Dalziel, has announced that she will resign in the local elections in October after taking up the post in 2013.
Mayor candidate Phil Mauger welcomed another candidate in the race.
“I’m pleased that David Meets has finally decided to run for mayor,” Moger said.
“It’s good for people to have different competitors. That’s all about democracy.
“The most important thing is that people vote, and everyone elected has a clear mission from our payers.”
-By Devon Bolger