I think that generally New Zealand is respected for the positions it takes because it thinks them through.

In terms of having views and being prepared to express them, yes, I think New Zealand's had a leadership role in a lot of things.

I deeply detest social distinction and snobbery, and in that lies my strong aversion to titular honours.

Senator Obama will be taking office at a critical juncture. There are many pressing challenges facing the international community, including the global financial crisis and global warming. We look forward to working closely with President-elect Obama and his team to address these challenges.

No country will reach its full potential if its female citizens do not enjoy full equality.

It's fair to say that, for much of my lifetime, New Zealand certainly was a property-owning democracy and working people, ordinary people, had assets.

Of course I have an opinion on many things but I don't micromanage.