Jim Peters

Jim Peters (born 1937) is a New Zealand politician, born in Kawakawa. He is of Ngati Wai and Clan McInnes descent. He went to school at Whananaki Primary and Wesley College, Auckland. Further education followed at Auckland University and Auckland Teachers Training College. He graduated in History and Political Studies. He is a member of the New Zealand First party, which is led by his younger brother Winston Peters. Peters entered Parliament as a list MP in the 2002 elections, having previously served as the Chairperson on the Northland Regional Council. Before entering politics he was a High School teacher. Formerly he was HOD History, Geography and Social Studies at Mount Albert Grammar School. From 1987 to mid 2002 he was Principal of Northland College, Kaikohe. He lost his list seat in the 2005 elections after New Zealand First's share of the party vote declined from its 2002 result. He was appointed Vice-Chancellor (Maori) of the University of Auckland in 2006. Three members of his family, the others being his brothers Ian Peters and Winston Peters, have been Members of Parliament in New Zealand.