Gower leaving parliament for new gig

Newshub has announced that Patrick Gower will be taking on a new challenge in 2018, hanging up his boots as Political Editor and moving to the role of National Correspondent.

Patrick has worked in the Parliamentary Press Gallery for 10 years, eight of those with 3 News and Newshub, the past five as Political Editor.

“The theme of politics this year has undoubtedly been ‘change’. It is time for a change for me,” said Patrick. “I’ve had a good run.”

Patrick described the role of Political Editor as “phenomenal and compelling”.

He reported on four election campaigns, three different Governments and four different Prime Ministers.

Beyond the major events, highlights include Rodney Hide’s use of perks, the “Teapot Tapes,” the Judith Collins Oravida controversy, Labour’s leadership changes, showing footage of rescue workers inside Pike River Mine for the first time. And of course, hosting Three’s live Newshub Leader’s Debate this year.

He also covered two American elections, including getting questions from Donald Trump on multiple occasions.

​One the new role of National Correspondent, Patrick said:
“I’m looking forward to getting out and about in New Zealand and breaking stories that are important to Kiwis.”
The National Correspondent role will involve reporting on stories of national significance and will play a key part in the Newshub Live at 6pm bulletin.

Hal Crawford, Chief News Officer Newshub said: “Paddy is one of the best communicators I have ever worked with – his new role as National Correspondent will see him unleashed on the whole of NZ, something I’m looking forward to immensely.”

Patrick’s replacement will be named in due course.