ACT New Zealand has today confirmed that it has selected James Christmas as its candidate to contest the Tāmaki electorate at November’s general election after receiving a strong mandate from a clear majority of local members and the endorsement of the Party’s Board.

James is an Auckland-based barrister with extensive experience at the highest levels of New Zealand government. Specialising in public law, constitutional issues, and national security, he served as a senior adviser to Prime Ministers Sir John Key and Sir Bill English and brings a wealth of expertise to the ACT team for the upcoming general election.

Commenting on his selection, James Christmas said:

“I’m delighted to be selected as ACT’s candidate for Tāmaki at this year’s election. This electorate has shown it wants an experienced and effective MP who will keep the Government honest and push for real change. Brooke van Velden proved that Tāmaki voters are ready to look beyond the traditional two-tick formula and back the candidate they think will deliver for the electorate and keep a National-led coalition government focussed on balancing the budget, increasing productivity, and expanding opportunities for future generations."

“Brooke van Velden leaves big shoes to fill and I acknowledge her outstanding service in delivering for this electorate. She set a high standard that I pledge to match if given the privilege of serving Tāmaki. I want to be an effective local MP who is visible, accessible, and cuts through bureaucracy to get things done for the electorate. Whether it’s continuing problems with crime and anti-social behaviour, investment in infrastructure, or the state of our beaches, I will always be easy to reach, quick to act, and willing to roll up my sleeves when residents need problems solved.”

“We need a centre-right Government re-elected in New Zealand, but ACT shares the frustrations that voters have with the pace of change. ACT has demonstrated over the last two years the essential role it plays keeping a National-led coalition government on-track and accountable, saving taxpayer money and cutting red tape to secure New Zealand’s prosperity.”

“Whoever you decide to give your party vote to this year, I am asking Tāmaki residents to lend me your electorate vote to be your local champion and voice right at the heart of government. We can keep a centre-right government in New Zealand – and make it better.”

“I look forward to meeting and engaging with as many people across the electorate in the coming weeks and months.”

ACT Deputy Leader and MP for Tāmaki, Brooke van Velden, added:

“Serving the people of Tāmaki as local MP has been a great privilege. I’ve enjoyed being part of the local community and bringing their voice to Parliament.

“Tāmaki residents are clever. They know that this election isn’t just about re-electing the Government, but how they can get the best local representation.

“James Christmas is that representative. With his experience working as a barrister and in the highest levels of the Beehive, he’ll know how to deliver for Tāmaki.

“I’m lending my support to James in the run-up to the election to ensure local residents have the strongest advocate in Parliament, and I know once locals get to know him too, they’ll lend their support in votes at the ballot box in November.”

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