Simon Watts

I'm a father, a chartered accountant with extensive international banking and finance experience, a volunteer ambulance officer, and a proud New Zealander.

I've served as the MP for North Shore since 2020. I'm also a cabinet minister and have held the portfolios of Energy, Climate, Local Government, Auckland and Revenue.

I was born in Cambridge, just outside Hamilton, where my parents were farmers. I'm the eldest of three boys and had a typical rural upbringing. I gained a Bachelor of Management Studies majoring in Accounting and Finance from the University of Waikato.

After graduating, I began my career with Deloitte in Corporate Tax. I qualified as a Chartered Accountant before moving into banking and finance roles in Canada, Ireland and the UK. My time in London was with the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), coinciding with the 2008 Global Financial Crisis.

While I was overseas, London experienced the 7/7 Terror Bombings. I saw how first responders made a difference to save lives, and resolved to upskill myself so I would also be able to help should the situation demand it.

Returning to New Zealand in 2013, I qualified with a Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedicine) at the Auckland University of Technology and registered as a paramedic. I was doing what I loved, but I knew I had value to contribute in the leadership arena, so I took up the role of Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Waitematā DHB.

Outside my corporate career, I've also served on the Diabetes New Zealand Trustee Board.

I'm married to Shannon, and together, we live in the North Shore electorate with our two children.

As Minister for Auckland, I'm focused on the issues that matter most to the region, from transport and housing to infrastructure and long-term investment through the Auckland Regional Deal.

As MP for North Shore, my priorities include transport connections, local infrastructure, and protecting the Hauraki Gulf. I've backed measures to support the Gulf's long-term health for the communities, businesses and marine life that depend on it.

Watch Simon's Newshub Nation backstory here: 

My Story | Simon Watts - MP for North Shore (Newshub Nation)

Watch Simon's maiden speech here:

Simon Watts - maiden speech (YouTube)