“I am honoured to be Labour’s Christchurch Central candidate and to have the opportunity to serve the city I grew up in,” George Hampton said.

“Christchurch Central is finally finding its feet after years of disruption, but real challenges remain for families, workers and businesses alike. The cost of living continues to rise, putting pressure on households.

“Housing affordability and insecure rentals, strained health services, homelessness, and transport and infrastructure that hasn’t kept pace with growth all affect everyday life, people’s ability to work and get ahead.

“We are already seeing the impacts of climate change and I want to help build local resilience and reduce its effects on our people.

“As a father and someone who has represented New Zealand globally, I know how important it is that Christchurch Central is a place where families can thrive, businesses can grow, and people can find good, secure jobs.

Hampton’s diplomatic career has seen him represent New Zealand in Europe and at the UN in New York, including as part of New Zealand’s team when the country served on the UN Security Council. In 2016 he assisted Helen Clark with her bid to become UN Secretary-General.

“That experience shapes how I would serve Christchurch Central. I’m standing to deliver practical results for our city. I want to use my experience and skills to ensure Christchurch Central remains a great place to work, visit, raise a family, and start a business.

“As your MP, I would use my experience at home and overseas to fight for Christchurch, listen first and then act, and deliver the results our people need today.

Hampton grew up in Christchurch with his six brothers and sisters and previously served on a local community board, Youth Council and as student president at Canterbury University. He is married with one daughter and he and his wife part-own Mr Whippy NZ.