Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Strong economic growth ahead - Parker

Updated at 6:00 am on 11 October 2010

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker anticipates strong economic growth during the next three years.

Mr Parker received 68,000 votes, 17,000 more than his closest rival, Wigram MP Jim Anderton.

While acknowledging the hardship many people still face following the earthquake on 4 September, Mr Parker says he believes the next three years will be good for Christchurch.

He says more than $6 billion will be spent rebuilding the city over the next two to three years.

He expects that to mean full employment and new business opportunities.

The Canterbury Employers Chamber of Commerce has said up to 150 small businesses are at risk of folding as a result of the earthquake.

Earthquake showed Parker's skills - PM

Prime Minister John Key has congratulated Bob Parker on being re-elected as Mayor of Christchurch.

Mr Key says it can be hard to get a good public profile at local government level, but the Canterbury earthquake showed voters Mr Parker's management and leadership skills.

He says the people of Christchurch feel confident in their mayor's leadership.

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