MP Maureen Pugh Reflects on 2025’s Cultural Highlights

West Coast-Tasman MP Maureen Pugh has shared her cultural highlights from 2025, revealing a diverse array of audiobooks, films, and personal experiences that shaped her year. A former mayor of Westland and a member of the National Party since 2023, Pugh’s reflections offer insight into her personal interests and the cultural landscape of her electorate.

Audiobook Enthusiast Lists 91 Titles

Pugh has embraced audiobooks as a key part of her daily routine, particularly due to her extensive travel across the largest electorate in New Zealand. “This year, I have listened to 91 books,” she noted, admitting that she was surprised by the total when she counted them up. Her passion for storytelling accompanies her whether she is driving, flying, or even gardening, illustrating how audiobooks have become an integral part of her life.

Film and Television Favorites

When it comes to cinema, Pugh has a fondness for classic romantic films, frequently revisiting titles such as Sleepless in Seattle and You’ve Got Mail. She expressed a particular admiration for action star Jason Statham, whose films she enjoys watching at home, given her limited time to visit theatres.

On television, Pugh’s favourite series is Outlander, which she enjoys for its strong characters and captivating narrative. She also mentioned Yellowstone, expressing a desire to emulate the boldness of character Beth Dutton. “Maybe it has something to do with the strong and independent women characters,” she added.

Pugh’s literary interests extend to poetry, where she cherishes the works of Banjo Paterson, a legendary Australian bush poet. “He wrote some classics that have survived the test of time,” she remarked, reminiscing about how her husband would quote lines from Paterson in conversation.

Music plays an important role in Pugh’s life as well. “There’s a huge amount of very cool country music played in my house,” she stated, highlighting her love for the genre as a part of her identity.

Memorable Dining and Cultural Events

Reflecting on her culinary experiences, Pugh recalled a recent dinner at Charlie Noble with a former employee, Ben, who is now a public servant in London. The meal, which featured one of the restaurant’s renowned steaks, provided an opportunity for Pugh to reconnect with a valued colleague while he was visiting New Zealand.

Art also holds a special place in her heart, and she recommended the annual Driftwood & Sand competition held along Hokitika Beach in January. This event draws families and visitors alike, showcasing temporary art that embodies the spirit of the West Coast community.

Concerts and live performances are another highlight for Pugh. She attended a memorable concert featuring Keith Urban and Carrie Underwood in Wellington, recalling the vibrant atmosphere of the event. “What a night,” she exclaimed, underscoring her enthusiasm for live music.

Looking ahead, Pugh is excited about future cultural events, particularly the Wildfoods Festival scheduled for the second Saturday in March 2026. “I always look forward to this feast of West Coast culture,” she said, mentioning that she often attends with colleagues.

Pugh’s reflections on 2025 paint a picture of an engaged public figure who values the arts, literature, and personal connections. Her diverse interests offer a glimpse into her life beyond politics and resonate with many who share similar passions. Readers are encouraged to share their own cultural highlights from the past year in the comments section below.