National MP Tim van de Molen badly injured falling from platform, taking time off to recover

National MP for Waikato Tim van de Molen is recovering in hospital. Photo / Mark Mitchell

A Waikato National MP is taking leave from Parliament after breaking both arms and suffering rib and spinal injuries in a tree felling accident.

Tim van de Molen is recovering at Waikato Hospital after falling from a platform on Saturday.

The 37-year-old was helping his father-in-law clear a tree damaged by the previous weekend's storm when the accident happened.

"Since arriving at Waikato Hospital, I have undergone several surgeries to address my injuries; the medical team expect I will be released from hospital next week," van de Molen said.

"I'd like to thank St John's staff for their prompt response and professionalism which led to me receiving a very high standard of care from the outset.

"I also extend my heartfelt thanks to the staff at Waikato Hospital for the exceptional dedication they have given to my care – especially acknowledging the difficulty of the existing workload being amplified by Covid-19."

National Party leader Chris Luxon said he had assured van de Molen that he had the full support of his colleagues as he took time to focus on himself, his recovery and his family.

Van de Molen's Morrinsville electoral office remains open and available to constituents.

In his absence Gerry Brownlee will act as National's Defence and Veterans spokesperson and Barbara Kuriger will act as the Horticulture spokesperson and cover the Associate Agriculture delegations.

"We wish Tim well in his recovery and look forward to welcoming him back at work when he is ready."

Hamilton-based National MP David Bennett said he wished van de Molen a speedy recovery and in the meantime if any of his constituents in or around the surrounding Hamilton area needed help then they were welcome to contact him as well.

The second-term MP is National's spokesperson for defence, veterans and horticulture.