Cats and dogs in NZ politics

Photo c/o parliament.nz

Once upon a time, I emailed several members of Parliament, to ask them to share a little bit about themselves that not many people know about.  Here are the ones who took time from their busy schedule to answer whether they're a cat or dog person.  Jacinda Ardern wasn't yet the Prime Minister when she emailed her answers.  We all know how she loved her cat Paddles, the First Cat of New Zealand and a social media star.  Phil Goff was still a Member of Parliament and not yet Mayor of Auckland City.

Jacinda Ardern (Labour Party)
A: I have always loved dogs but was never allowed one, so I grew up with cats and love them too.  Can I be both?  Right now, I would be a better cat owner than a dog owner.  I am never home!

David Bennett (National Party)
A: Definitely a cat person ... Just like small pets that are pretty much self sufficient.

Phil Goff (Labour Party)
A: A dog person.  I have two---a Jack Russell and a Huntaway.  They are good companions, loyal, you can take them for walks, use them to help round up farm animals and they have a lot of character.

Tim Macindoe (National Party)
A: Dog---because I grew up with them and always enjoyed having them around.  (But we had a lovely cat a few years ago and I still miss her).

Nikki Kaye (National Party)
A: Cat person - it's in the genes.  My mum and grandmother love cats too.

Denise Roche (Green Party)
A: Dog person. My partner is allergic to cat hair.

Sue Moroney (Labour Party)
A: I am one of those rare people who love both cats and dogs.  I was brought up with both and Rusty, Mooshey, Tilly, Monty and Scully have been loyal companions to me throughout my life.