Incumbent Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller has unfinished business

Bay of Plenty electorate MP Todd Muller says he has unfinished business. Photo/John Borren.

A political career was always in Todd Muller's destiny.

As a lad of 11 or 12 years, the incumbent Bay of Plenty electorate MP says he had a childhood fascination with becoming president of the United States, and even recalls writing a story about that.

"I became fascinated with American politics, particularly the US presidents after my parents bought me a set of world encyclopedia.

"I loved the fact that these leaders could a make a difference to the lives of so many people and, in doing so, helped to change the course of history," he said.

More than 35 years on, Mr Muller may no longer have the same lofty goal, but his desire to make a difference to the lives of the people in his electorate has never dwindled.

The 48-year-old father of three, who was elected in 2014, said he was honoured to represent his electorate in Parliament and took his responsibilities seriously.

"While it takes a lot of hard work to do this job well, it's one of the most rewarding I have had. Connecting with people from all sectors of the community and having the opportunity to make a difference to their lives is something I enjoy immensely," he said.

The oldest of four boys, Mr Muller was born in Te Aroha, but was raised in Te Puna where he worked on the family orchard. He is married to Michelle.

After he gained his masters in politics, history and English from the University of Waikato, where he also held office as president of the student union, he ended up as a
staffer for former Prime Minister Jim Bolger.

Mr Muller then spent 15 years working in the corporate world before returning to politics.

The staunch National Party supporter said he fundamentally believed the country was better off under a National-led Government.

Mr Muller said if re-elected, some of his top priorities for the Bay were to continue to push ahead with National's Housing Infrastructure Fund implementation, and ensuring the city's future growth was well managed and sustainable.

Ensuring Tauranga got its own residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility and a 24/7 accident and emergency centre in Papamoa was also on his agenda, he said.

"I'm also a strong supporter of completion of our broadband network, particularly for the people of Te Puna and Omokoroa," Mr Mulller said.

"I think this is a job I have always wanted to do, and feel very privileged to serve this community ... There is definitely a lot more work I want to do to help ensure this continues to be the best place to live, work, play, and do business," he said.

Mr Muller is a former general manager of Zespri, chief executive of Apata Limited, and the group director corporate affairs for Fonterra.