JESSICA REJOICES We survived the first year!'

The TVNZ political editor and her daughter Margaux celebrate a special milestone

It’s almost a month before little Margaux’s first birthday, but when the Woman’s Day team pulls out a cake for our photo shoot with her and mum Jessica Mutch McKay, the wee girl somehow knows it’s all in her honour.

Laughing at her daughter’s wide eyes and outstretched arms, the TVNZ political editor says, “This is beyond her wildest dreams. It’ll take all her willpower not to grab a big fistful. She’s very into exploring, touching and biting things at the moment!”

It’s an adorable scene at the family’s Wellington home, but things are set to get even cuter on Margaux’s actual birthday on October 31. Jessica, 36, explains, “We’ll have a little party with family and friends, and we’ll have the kids dress up in Halloween costumes. I’m getting a pumpkin outfit for her – just think of the embarrassing photos we’ll have for her 21st!

“I only hope coalition negotiations will be done and dusted by then because I definitely plan on having a glass or two of champagne to celebrate surviving this first year and I don’t want to be on call!”