Episode 10: A Life of Learning - Anne Tolley

Anne Tolley is a former member of the New Zealand House of Representatives, representing the National Party for almost twenty years. Anne was New Zealand's first female Minister of Education, and the first Minister for Children. She was also Minister of Social Development, Minister of Corrections, Minister of Police, and Minister of Local Government and also served as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. Anne is currently the Chair of the Commission overseeing Tauranga City Council. 

In this full and frank interview, Anne discusses her childhood and the positive but strict influence of her parents, both teachers, who wouldn’t settle for anything but first place! By questioning how she came second, they were giving Anne valuable lessons in life, and throughout her career she continued to be open to learning. The eldest of four children, she was the only one of the siblings who didn’t stay in the family business of teaching, but instead became, amongst other things, the Minister for Education.  

Anne also talks about how she and her husband were property developers and would always be ‘bumping heads’ with Council planning departments. This was what started her political career, becoming Deputy Mayor of Napier City Council and an elected Councillor in the Hawkes Bay Regional Council at the same time. Her passion for change drove her to Wellington, literally, and into national politics. Interestingly, she is now back in local government as Commissioner. 

Many people have preconceived ideas about politicians regardless of where on the political spectrum they lie. I hope this episode provides a greater understanding of the person behind the politics. 

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