UPDATED: Tauranga-based New Zealand First MP Clayton Mitchell admits his political career has taken off like an "unexpected rocket" but hopes he can sustain it.
The former Tauranga City Councillor made his maiden speech as a new member in the 51st New Zealand Parliament in front of fellow members, thespeaker and his family this afternoon.
"I am very honoured and humbled to have this opportunity to present myself here today as a new member of parliament with high hopes, big dreams and positive aspirations," Mr Mitchell said.
"Mr speaker, my political career has taken off like an unexpected rocket, and one which I hope doesn't end like the kind you get at The Warehouse before Guy Fawkes. More like the long standing space ship Discovery which has had over 27 years of takeoffs, research missions and successful landings."
See the full story in tomorrow's Bay of Plenty Times.
