Driving Minister Horomia

I finally worked for my fellowship grant today. I’m not sure how it happened, but I got roped into driving the Minister of Maori Affairs, Parekura Horomia, from Gisborne to Napier. I’d been planning a relaxing drive down the coast, with plenty of time to stop, enjoy the scenery, and take pictures. Instead I got a three hour conversation with the Minister. It was a bit terrifying. The road is windy and cliffside, still a bit stressy for this novice left-hand driver. So there I was, madly trying to keep the car on the right side of the road, steer the conversation toward my project topic, and pay close attention to what he was saying to remember for later. Phew.

It was also an interesting glimpse into the life of a cabinet minister in a small country. Wherever we stopped – bathroom break, gas station, vista point, he was recognized, by kids, little old ladies, and everyone in between. He is a big personality with tireless people skills. He stopped to talk to everyone, asked them questions, and gave them his card. New Zealand is heading into election season, but he even had a longish conversation with a German tourist at a rest stop. The poor guy had no idea who Parekura Hormia was, but that didn’t matter. The Minister sent the guy off with his card and instructions to call him when he reaches Wellington. I’m just wondering how the staff in the Minister's office deal with all of the random calls and visitors this must create.

I think I have a new career as a chauffeur ahead of me.