Shane Ardern

Philip Shane Ardern (known as Shane Ardern) is a New Zealand politician. He is a member of the National Party, representing the electorate of Taranaki-King Country.

He was first elected in the Taranaki-King Country by-election of 1998, which was prompted by the retirement from politics of former Prime Minister Jim Bolger. He has held that seat since.

Before entering politics, Ardern was a dairy farmer, and many of his political activities have been on behalf of the farming community. He was born on 26 January 1960, and raised in Opunake.

He gained nationwide recognition when, having driven a tractor up the front steps of Parliament as part of a protest against a proposed agricultural emissions research levy, nicknamed the "flatulence" or "fart tax", he was investigated by the police for dangerous conduct.

Political offices

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External links

* [http://www.ardern.co.nz/ Shane Ardern's official website]
* [http://www.parliament.nz/en-NZ/MPP/MPs/MPs/1/8/9/48MP18941-Ardern-Shane.htm Parliamentary website page]