After a rollercoaster ride steering New Zealand through the COVID crisis and playing a pivotal role in saving jobs and lives, Robertson says he’s poured everything into his political career and it’s time to step aside.
The man who faced down an economic tempest and came out on top is signing off, but not without a hefty dose of pride.
He recalls the nail-biting moment he vowed not to let unemployment skyrocket, showcasing the mettle that made him a Labour Party legend.
But this wasn’t an easy choice. Spilling the beans to his caucus and his buddy Chris ‘Chippy’ Hipkins, Robertson marked an emotional day for Labour. Hipkins, caught in the feels, reminisced about the trio of power – Robertson, Jacinda Ardern, and himself – and the seismic shift their departures have caused.
Rewind to 2008, and it’s clear Robertson was always destined for big things, standing back so Ardern could shine, showcasing his team spirit. Despite a couple of runs at the top job and breaking barriers as an openly gay politician eyeing the Prime Minister’s office, Robertson’s focus was on supporting his team, especially backing Ardern through her tenure as PM.
Now, he’s swapping the political battlefield for the academic halls of Otago University, ready to inspire as the new vice-chancellor. It’s a full-circle moment for Robertson, returning to the place that kick-started his illustrious career.
Stepping into his shoes, Barbara Edmonds takes on the finance role, breaking new ground as Labour’s first female finance spokesperson. Meanwhile, Robertson leaves behind a Labour Party at a crossroads, grappling with its identity post-election defeat.
As Chippy gears up for the challenges ahead without his key allies, Robertson’s parting words of faith in ‘Chippy’ signal a hopeful, albeit daunting, future for Labour.
