Nanaia Mahuta was just 26 when she first became a list MP 21 years ago.
This week she made history, becoming the first wahine to be the Minister of Māori
Development - and the first minister to wear a facial moko.
Despite being instructed not to vote for her by her cousin King Tuheitia, the voters of Hauraki Waikato sent Ms Mahuta back to Parliament with an increased majority of 10,000 votes.
And she's been rewarded for her success - picking up ministerial portfolios in local government and associate environment, alongside Māori development.
Watch the video for the full interview with Nanaia Mahuta.