The 1983 Christchurch mayoral election was part of the New Zealand local elections held that same year. In 1983, election were held for the Mayor of Christchurch plus other local government positions. The polling was conducted using the standard first-past-the-post electoral method.
Background Incumbent Mayor Hamish Hay became the Christchurch Citizens' Association's candidate in March 1983. Rex Lester, the deputy mayor, was chosen as the Labour Party's candidate later that same month.
Results Hay was re-elected with an increased majority, defeating Lester. In addition to Hay retaining the mayoralty there was a concurrent swing towards the Citizens' Association leaving the composition of the council at eleven seats to the Citizens' Association with eight to the Labour Party.
Earlier in the day, Lester's home was broken into by burglars who stole his bicycle and sporting gear.
The following table gives the election results:
Ward results Candidates were also elected from wards to the Christchurch City Council.
Party/ticket Councillors Citizens' 11 Labour 8
References