Opinion: Values-based political personas shine through

Jacinda Ardern and Bill English go head to head in the first leaders debate of the election.

Everywhere I go I'm asked, "what do you think Merepeka, who's going to take it on the day?"

Waiting for my coffee to go, at the gym, heading into a meeting. It's what people want to talk about. I would prefer to keep my thoughts to myself at this stage because while everyone else may be prepared to take a punt I think it's going to go down to the wire.

But I'm enjoying the spectacle that passes for Election Day build-up. I have to be interested in politics. My work is local body politics but in reality so much is driven by central government in Wellington.

I have watched the two leaders debating on TV3. I think Jacinda Ardern comes across very well. She is like a breath of fresh air. One of the first questions asked in this week's debate was "is it possible to be a politician and not lie?"

Bill English explained politics was a tough job but that openness and honesty was important. Jacinda didn't hesitate when she said, yes. But if she made a mistake she would own it.

She is big on values and has said so on a number of occasions. She should keep saying it because values are important and it's something we don't often hear politicians refer to.

I suspect many have their own personal set of values but having them and trying to live, work and be guided by them are two different things.

A values-based person is someone who accepts accountability for their behaviour, is honest, genuine and real.

They can create meaningful unexpected new ideas and give them their full attention. They can be unselfish, kind and willing to share.

A values-based person rates honesty highly and always tries to remain sincere and free from deceit. They will be willing to accept another's opinion even though they do not necessarily agree with it.

It's about what you say you will do and then commit to doing. Walking the talk. Politicians shouldn't be afraid to drop that word into their conversation. Because many voters are big on vales too.

Jacinda keeps it simple. She looks genuinely attentive and interested when questions are put to her. She answers without making snide remarks and doesn't constantly try to take pot shots at the Government.

She doesn't attempt to talk over another person whether a Member of Parliament or a journalist. Why politicians feel this is something you need to do to get your point across has always puzzled me. Why not wait your turn.

I found myself shaking my head the other night watching Jacinda on TV. What's wrong? After nine years in Parliament by now she should be cynical and sarcastic. Perhaps it's only when you become the Government and a minister that you develop these traits.

The ones we see interviewed all the time haven't wasted any time. Invariably contemptuous towards their political opponents. Always ready with deriding and scornful comments.

Jacinda should carry on as she has started. The way she is conducting herself sets her apart from the majority of politicians. It could be generational. I've been watching the younger hopefuls in this election. They seem to get their message across without getting scornful.

The small group of under-20s that I often bounce things off when I want to get a younger person's perspective have no problems talking about values. It's the language they use and what they look for and want to hear in a leader.

I think older politicians had these values once. Probably still do. They should dig deep, retrieve them, polish them off and let them shine.

Your values speak volumes for the person you are. Jacinda's are like a megaphone coming through loud and clear.