I became a Member of Parliament as the representative for the Tamaki electorate as a result of the 2005 election. I was re-elected in 2008 with a 17.020 majority, the third largest in the country. I am chairman of Parliament's Education and Science Select Committee.

I entered Parliament following a 32 year career in education, culminating in the principal ship of two secondary schools, Colenso High School, Napier (1990-93) and then of what became under my leadership the largest secondary school in New Zealand, Rangitoto College (1993-2005). I also had the privilege of leading my profession, serving two terms as President of the secondary Principals Association of New Zealand (1998-2000).

In 2000 I was a Woolf Fisher Fellow, traveling extensively to study the schooling systems of the United States of America and the United Kingdom.

I am the author of “What’s up with our schools? a New Zealand principal speaks out”, published by Random House in 2005. I have also contributed a chapter to the book “School Leadership”, published in the United Kingdom and written a number of articles for education publications, both in New Zealand and overseas.

I speak extensively on education and related issues to a wide range of forums and audiences. I never decline invitations to speak to community and professional groups.

I am supported by my wife of 34 years Jeanette and by our four adult children, two sons and two daughters.

I am a committed electorate MP. I thoroughly enjoy serving the people of Tamaki and find this the most satisfying part of the job. I have two offices within the electorate. One is at 305B Kepa Road which is open six days a week, telephone 578 3691. The other is at 3/6 Polygon Road St Heliers, open all day Mondays and Fridays and Tuesday and Thursday mornings., telephone 575 9842. Call either number for an appointment to see me. In addition a member of my staff is available at the Glen Innes Citizens Advice Bureau on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.

I can be contacted at my parliamentary office on 04 817 6899.