Anything Could Happen

In this illuminating and beautifully written book, Grant Robertson reflects on the major events in his life, from growing up in a loving but complex family, through to his highly successful career as a Labour politician and becoming Finance Minister in the Ardern government during one of New Zealand history’s most tumultuous times.

A natural storyteller, Robertson writes memorably about his childhood and teen years in Dunedin: grappling with his sexuality as a teenager, his passion for music and a fleeting career managing bands, his emerging political beliefs, and being told the shocking news that his father had been stealing from his employer and was facing imprisonment.

Robertson paints a vivid picture of life inside parliament – including his time in opposition, where he learnt at the feet of Helen Clark, and the immense privilege and responsibility of being Finance Minister, none more so than when the Covid-19 pandemic threatened to decimate New Zealand’s economy.

In recounting the challenges he faced, Robertson writes honestly about how politics works, and why it matters, and his belief in the unique potential of Aotearoa and his optimism for its future.

Author Biography

Grant Robertson was a member of Parliament for fifteen years, including being New Zealand’s Minister of Finance from 2017 to 2023 and Deputy Prime Minister from 2020 to 2023. In addition, he was Leader of the House, and held Ministerial portfolios in Infrastructure, Sport and Recreation, Racing, Earthquake Commission, Cyclone Recovery and an Associate Ministerial role in Arts, Culture and Heritage.

Grant is now Vice-Chancellor at the University of Otago. He and his partner, Alf, have four grandchildren. Grant and Alf live in Dunedin.