National selects Christopher Penk as Kelston candidate

The National Party has announced that Christopher Penk will be its candidate for the Kelston electorate at the 2014 General Election.

“Christopher has a genuine will to serve. As a resident of Kelston, he understands the issues that matter most to its residents at this election and will make an outstanding local MP,” said Northern Regional Chair Andrew Hunt.

Mr Penk said he was honoured to be selected and would be running a strong campaign to win more party votes for National in the seat.

“National’s plan for a stronger economy with more jobs, better public services in health and education, more support for families, and safer communities is delivering for Kelston communities. I’ll be working tirelessly to ensure we can keep New Zealand heading in the right direction.”

National re-opened selection for the Kelston electorate after the decision by List MP Claudette Hauiti to retire from politics at the election.

“I also want to acknowledge Claudette for the work she has done to date as a National MP in the Northern Region,” said Mr Hunt.

As the National Party List has already been selected, Mr Penk will enter National’s List at the position of 68. Placing him, as an electorate candidate, ahead of other candidates not standing in seats, but behind other electorate candidates.

Biographical Notes – Christopher Penk

A born-and-bred West Aucklander, Christopher Penk lives in Kelston with his wife Kim.

After completing his secondary education at Kelston Boys High School, Christopher studied at Auckland University, gaining a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1999 and a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) degree in 2009.

Christopher joined the Royal New Zealand Navy in 2000, which included serving as an officer of the watch on the HMNZS Te Kaha. He also worked for 12 months as aide-de-camp to the Governor-General in 2003, greatly enjoying this role as a member of Dame Silvia Cartwright’s personal staff at Government House. Later, Christopher went on to fulfill a dream of serving aboard submarines, spending time in the Australian Defence Force as navigating officer on HMAS Sheean.

Christopher returned to New Zealand in 2008 where he completed his legal training. This culminated in his admission to the bar in 2010, most recently working as Senior Solicitor at Hornabrook Macdonald Lawyers, a boutique commercial and property law firm.

Outside his military service and legal career, Christopher has been an active member of many community groups, including the Returned Services Association, Glen Eden’s Playhouse Theatre, and playing and coaching several cricket teams at the local Suburbs New Lynn Cricket Club.

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