Wise Guys Eight Kiwi Dads On The Role Of A Life Time!

To Celebrate Father’s Day, We Check in With Some Famous Dads.

Simon Bridges

As the Leader of the Opposition, Simon juggles fatherhood with his busy job – he’s been at the helm of the National Party since February last year and Tauranga MP since 2008. Simon (42) and his wife Natalie, the director of a public relations and marketing firm, have three children, Emlyn (7), Harry (5), and Jemima (1).

What’s the best piece of advice your father gave you?

Dad has always been very ambitious for his six kids and always encouraged us to work hard and try our best. As a Baptist minister, he also led a life of service in our community. His actions more than his words have been the best example for me.

What’s your best Father’s Day memory?

I’m the youngest of six, and one year when I was very young we gave Dad a Father’s Day card signed by all of us. My signature was massive and all over the place. For the next 15 years or so, we gave Dad the same card and he was always appreciative and never seemed to notice. My siblings and I thought it was a great laugh every year.

How did you spend Father’s Day as a child? What do you do nowadays?

Growing up, I remember Sunday lunches with a roast dinner followed by a sponge cake. Then Dad would settle in and watch sports on TV. Today still revolves around food. We’ll go out for brunch and then maybe a walk or we’ll kick a ball around.

What’s surprised you the most about fatherhood?

There are no holidays! But seriously, probably the tender moments.

What do you wish someone had warned you about becoming a dad?