NZ's longest serving mayor eligible for pension

Tim Shadbolt. Photo / Robert Trathen

New Zealand's longest serving mayor is now eligible for the pension.

Invercargill mayor Tim Shadbolt turns 65 today.

He says he is also eligible for the Super Gold card, a Winston Peters initiative from his days in the Clark Labour government.

Tim Shadbolt says he has not got the card yet as his birthday is today and he has to do the paperwork.

He says it will be a turn up if Mr Peters delivers it personally.

Tim Shadbolt says with a Gold Card, whenever he is in Auckland he will be able to get a free trip to Waiheke Island.

The birthday boy spent this morning recording a TV show and is now out fishing with his son.