The mayor is directly elected using a first-past-the-post electoral system.
[3] Waimakariri District was established as part of the 1989 local government reforms.
It was formed from Rangiora District, Kaiapoi Borough, Oxford County, Eyre County (based on Ohoka) and part of Hurunui County – although Rangiora District and Eyre County had already amalgamated earlier that year.
He died shortly after resigning on health grounds in 1995.
[5] Former Member of Parliament Jim Gerard defeated Skurr in 2001 and was re-elected unopposed in 2004.