By David Grant. Published by Te Herenga Waka University Press, 2022. (NZD 50). Reviewed by Susan Smith

New Zealand politician Jim Anderton wore many hats — successful business man, president of the Labour Party, much loved MP for Sydenham, prophet who railed against Rogernomics, founder of political parties, promoter of Kiwibank and, towards the end of his political career, highly regarded minister of agriculture.

Unlike some other left-wing political leaders in Aotearoa, Anderton was more influenced by Catholic Social Teaching than by Marxist ideology, and although identified as a communist by right-wing ideologues, he is more properly described as a social democrat.

Grant believes in Anderton but recognises his weaknesses. He admires Anderton’s deep compassion for the poor and marginalised, his organisational skills and his prescient awareness of the damage that Rogernomics would mean and still means for Aotearoa.

But Grant also sees Anderton’s controlling and authoritarian tendencies, at least prior to his rapprochement with Helen Clark in the Fifth Labour Government, when he became a successful and mellowed deputy prime minister.

It is unfortunate that more contemporary politicians are lacking the organisational skills, personal integrity and compassion for the poor and marginalised that were so characteristic of Jim Anderton.

This is a fine biography — a good read whether or not you admired Anderton. The many photos and illustrations help anchor the story in its time.

Tui Motu Magazine. Issue 284 August 2023: 28