Baseball’s go-to guy
Ian McDonald, 53, Te Atatu, communications advisor at Baseball New Zealand. ‘‘I don't think we're doing a good enough job for the many generations who will be living here in the decades to come’’ Ian McDonald
What do you like best about the west? I’d say just the relaxed lifestyle, but it’s still close to the city. The people are friendly, will offer help and especially in our street, are very neighbourly and watch out for you.
How long have you lived here and where are you originally from? I have lived in the Te Atatu area for over 11 years. Originally from Upper Hutt, before moving to Nelson. Have been in west Auckland for close to 20 years.
Where’s the best place to buy dinner in the west? Tony’s Steakhouse in Henderson is a regular dinner venue for us, just for a quiet dinner out, or a family or friends special night. Don’t need to book either.
Who is the Kiwi you admire the most and why? Would have to be Richie McCaw. He epitomises the kiwi attitude of just getting on with the job with no fuss and bother and just leading by example. To play rugby at the level he played at for over 13 years is truly astonishing. I’m guessing it’ll take a long time for his body to recover fully.
If I was Auckland mayor... I would like to see public transport improved to try and ease the gridlock we see on our roads and motorways on a daily basis. Perhaps if greater Auckland had implemented many of Mayor Dove-Myer Robinson’s plans in the 60s and 70s, we wouldn’t be panicking and building more and more motorways. I don’t think we’re doing a good enough job for the many generations who will be living here in the decades to come.
When I have got free time I like to... Watch sport. I’m a baseball, rugby and football nut. Having a job in the sporting industry with Baseball New Zealand means I spend a lot of time in and around sport. Baseball is a real growth sport in this country and locally West City Baseball Club is rising again and will have three age grade teams playing at McLeod Park this coming summer.