Ousted MP plans move back to Marlborough

Former Christchurch Central MP and Marlborough Express editor Brendon Burns has quit politics and is moving home to Marlborough.

The former Labour MP said he was greatly disappointed to lose his seat to National's Nicky Wagner in the last election and the decision to leave politics was difficult.

"That's life ... I'm leaving, but I'm very satisfied with my job. I did my darn best and worked as hard as possible for my central Christchurch constituents," he said yesterday.

Mr Burns put the election loss down to more than 3000 constituents leaving his electorate after the September earthquake and the overall tiredness of the voters. He lost by 47 votes on a recount, after a deadheat on election night.

Mr Burns left The Express in 2002, seeking the nomination in Kaikoura, before moving to Christchurch and representing Christchurch Central from 2008 to 2011.

Now he is excited to return to Marlborough with his wife Philippa, where they will be closer to daughter Rachel who is a school teacher in Blenheim. "Our two daughters have always regarded Marlborough as home, and that was a big part of the decision to move back. For me, Marlborough has to be the nicest spot in the country and we're both looking forward to being involved in the fantastic community once again and contributing where we can."

Mr Burns was a journalist for 25 years, including seven years as editor of The Marlborough Express. He planned to commute to Wellington for communications work.

He intended to plod away on their 2ha Mt Molehill vineyard, and had plans to build a house on a 6ha section near the vineyard.

"I really enjoy getting out there on the vineyard, working away. The cellphone doesn't work, the weather is always beautiful and there is a lot of time to think. It's brilliant.

"One door closes and another one opens, we're really looking at this as a new challenge."

Mr Burns said his wife Philippa had given him unconditional support throughout his years on the political circuit.

"Philippa has been marvellous, the support she has given me has been truly enormous.

"There are real stresses and strains upon you as a back bench MP and no matter how you look at it, you are constantly working."

Mr Burns said he treasured certain moments in his career.

"I'm not one to look back on my life, but giving my first speech in Parliament, where I was able to acknowledge my family and honour the courage of my parents for moving to New Zealand when I was four, was very special.

"I was a very active MP and stood up for my electorate on a number of occasions."

He said it was highly unlikely he would return to politics, but refused to rule it out. "Never say never. Funnier things have happened and you never really know what the future holds."

- © Fairfax NZ News

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