Look who’s talking

What do you like best about the South Waikato?

People are friendly, it’s central not too far away from things, sporty, people are good at sports.

What is the worst thing about the South Waikato?

It’s an external thing, aye, it’s more the perception from outside of this town. That is what I think, you know, Tokoroa it’s that negative thing. We live here so we love this town.

What is the most devastating event you have endured?

When my parents died, my dad especially because he went before my mum that is probably the one that hit me the most.

What is the most inspir- ing event you have seen?

Probably graduation, oh kids being born and grandkids. But university graduation being the first one at Otago University, because of my dad he was real disappointed when I left school early.

What is your favourite fish & chip shop?

Probably two, East and West and the Kelso Street one. The Kelso street I get the chips and fish from there and East and West I get all the Chinese stuff.

When I’ve got free time I like to ...

Play with grandkids. They are the highlight for me, they really are different, aye – they have a sense of humour and are funny.

Something that really annoys me about people is ...

Really self-centred people, they don’t stop to think about others.

If a tourist came to the South Waikato I would take them ...

To the bike trails, the lakes, fishing and hunting.

If I were mayor the first thing I would do is ...

Probably education, like work with universities to try get a satellite in town like Massey University, like a satellite hub.

If I was not a principal or teacher I would be a ...

Still in edu- cation, like a university lecturer.

My two cents on the South Waikato

‘‘ Good range of opportunities here. Good place to live and friendly people.’’