Gerry Brownlee on 30 years in politics and the last campaign
Toby Manhire speaks to the outgoing speaker after a storied political career, and an election campaign he himself describes as ‘too negative’.
11 Nov 2026
More about the episode
Three decades of parliamentary life is coming to an end for Gerry Brownlee. He joins Toby to revisit a career that has spanned roles including deputy National leader, a range of senior ministerial positions, the Christchurch earthquake recovery and speaker of the house. He also shares his view on the negative campaign National ran in 2026, the overhang and its proponents, and the levels of vitriol in parliament across those years. Plus: working with Bolger, the Christchurch response and those “carping and moaning” remarks, a friendship with Golriz Ghahraman, and his advice for the new intake of MPs.
At Large with Toby Manhire is produced by Te Aihe Butler, Bridget Mills and The Spinoff.
