Q&A - Tim MacIndoe, MP (National)

Tim MacIndoe is the MP of Hamilton West.  We both share something in common, we're both from Hamilton and last year I moved over to the West side of the city.  That means I'm his constituent.  I've met him a couple of times in community gatherings and has always been impressed by his quiet ways.

I see him as a person with a solid foundation, good family background, a good husband to Anne and a good father to two girls, in fact whenever I see him in person or on TV, he's the poster boy for Mister Parenthood!  Hands down he will also win as Father of the Year!  Come to think of it, I'm beginning to equate with Steve Martin from one of my favourite movie, the 1991 classic Father of the Bride.

Q: What's your proudest achievement up to this moment?
A: Personally: With my wife, raising two well-rounded, intelligent, lovely daughters.  I am very proud of them both (and I'm a besotted dad!).  Professionally: Helping some of my constituents to gain positive outcomes in issues that were causing them major challenges, grief or anxiety.  For confidentiality reasons, I can't name them, but gaining good results for them has been hugely rewarding.

Q: Name 3 people, dead or alive, you'll like to have dinner with, and why?
A: Mahatma Gandhi---his personal life, experiences and example have always moved me.  My paternal grandmother.  She died before I was born and I'd love to have known her and to ask about my father as a child, etc.  C.S. Lewis---a humble, intelligent and faithful man.  His books are always worth reading.

Q: Are you a cat or dog person, and why?
A: Dog---because I grew up with them and always enjoyed having them around.  (But we had a lovely cat a few years ago and I still miss her).

Q: Where in NZ is the place you can call as your sanctuary, and why?
A: My home in Hamilton.  Especially when all my family are there and I have a moment to relax, or when I am able to spend some time in the garden with my wife.  I also love anywhere near the sea with great views, few people and plenty of wildlife.

Q: Something not many people know about you.
A: I used to teach night classes in Christchurch Women's Prison.

Q: If you could travel back in time, where and when would it be, and why?
A: Jerusalem when Jesus was alive and teaching.  I think that would be an amazing experience---and would help to answer lots of questions that arise in today's society!

Q: What are your plans for the future?
A: To retain my seat on 20 September 2014!  After that, to be a diligent and effective MP, to aim for further promotion and to try to get some balance in my professional and private life as my family will always be the most important part of my life---and I want to be able to enjoy them long after my political career is over.

I really don't know yet if I'll vote for him this coming elections.  But I'm beginning to see a clearer picture of him.  Good luck Tim!