He grew up in West Auckland and on leaving University he was a concrete contractor and managed the family orchard. He also served on school committees and was very much involved in community and political causes.
In 1983 Tim’s election as Mayor of Waitemata City was a huge upset. He is a skilful communicator and related very well to the people of the area and although often controversial, he remained in office until 1989. He was a member of the Auckland Regional Authority from 1983-1988 and a Waitakere City Councillor 1992-1993. In 1993 Tim became Mayor of Invercargill for two years and still remains in office – he and his team have attracted investment and people from other parts of NZ (especially students) to Invercargill, through innovative and creative marketing.
Tim has always been a successful communicator - from his University days on the Students Assoc. Executive and Editor of their magazine to television presenting, radio and magazine presenting and regular appearances in celebrity quiz shows, telethons, charity functions and BNZ debates. He also taught communication skills at Southland Polytechnic.
He has been involved in advertising and promotions with a wide range of companies on a national and local scale - BBC Computers, NZ Heritage Magazine, Mitre 10, NZ Cheese, Pacific Steel, Bluff Promotions, A1 Demolitions, Lucozade, Bell-Booth agricultural products. His most recent innovative marketing exercise promoting Invercargill made the national headlines and TV news.
Tim has travelled extensively overseas to Western Europe, America, China, Japan etc. He has many published works and has written many articles – probably best known are his autobiography “Bullshit & Jellybeans” –“Notes on the Country I Live In” (with Ans Westra & James K. Baxter) -“In Defence of Children” and “The Kiwidome Project”. His was a columnist for the Sunday News and presently is a columnist for the Southland Times. He is a regular contributor to Fouveau Radio – John Husband’s show. He enjoys rugby, league and boxing and golden oldies sporting events.
Tim is a very experienced speaker and he shares his experiences with his audience in an enjoyable and humorous presentation.
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