Long-serving mayor of Invercargill, known for his charismatic personality and efforts to revitalize the city. He's a beloved local figure in New Zealand politics.
Tim Shadbolt, a household name in New Zealand politics, has been a thorn in the side of the establishment for over five decades. As the longest-serving mayor in New Zealand's history, he has been the Mayor of Invercargill since 1998, and previously held the same position in Waitemata City from 1983 to 1989.
Born on February 19, 1947, in the Auckland suburb of Remuera, Shadbolt's life was marred by tragedy when his father died in a flying accident in 1952. This event seemed to instill in him a sense of rebelliousness and a desire to challenge the status quo.
Shadbolt's activist streak was evident during his university days at the University of Auckland, where he was a member of the Auckland University Students Association executive and editor of the student magazine Craccum in 1972. His involvement in the Progressive Youth Movement, a radical left-wing organization, led to his arrest 33 times during political protests in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
In 1983, Shadbolt stood for Mayor of Waitemata City, citing his desire to prevent the incumbent Tony Covic from being re-elected unopposed. He won the election by a margin of 1,200 votes, and his unorthodox approach to politics was evident when he celebrated by towing his concrete mixer, named Karl Marx, behind the mayoral Daimler in the 1983 Henderson Christmas parade.
In 1986, Shadbolt created Tims Team, a political ticket of young, liberal councillors that helped him win re-election. His three-year term saw a significant increase in voter turnout, from 16% in 1980 to 70% in 1986, the highest ever turnout for a local election in New Zealand.
In 1998, Shadbolt shifted his focus to Invercargill, where he won the mayoral election and has remained in office ever since. His longevity in office is a testament to his enduring popularity among the people of Invercargill.
Throughout his career, Shadbolt has been driven by a desire to challenge the establishment and promote social and political change. His autobiography, Bullshit and Jellybeans, published in 1971, reflects his disdain for authority and his commitment to free speech.
As a mayor, Shadbolt has been a vocal advocate for progressive policies, including environmental protection, social justice, and community development. His unorthodox approach to politics has often put him at odds with central government, but has earned him a reputation as a champion of the people.
Tim Shadbolt's legacy extends beyond his impressive political career. He has inspired a generation of activists and politicians to challenge the status quo and fight for social and political change. As a champion of the people, he has left an indelible mark on New Zealand politics.
Love him or hate him, Tim Shadbolt is an iconic figure in New Zealand politics, and his commitment to progressive values and social justice will be remembered for generations to come.
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A farmer-turned-politician who served as the Prime Minister of New Zealand from 2016 to 2017, known for his efforts to reduce poverty and improve the country's economy.
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A German-Canadian singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer, known for his eclectic style blending rock, folk, and blues, and as the frontman of the rock band Steppenwolf. He's famous for hits like "Born to Be Wild" and "Magic Carpet Ride".
