Kym McDonald-King

Kym McDonald-King is a lifelong advocate for community, public service and practical solutions. With a career spanning healthcare, business, community engagement and politics, she brings more than 25 years of frontline experience working with New Zealanders from all walks of life.  

Born and raised in the South Island, Kym has made Dunedin her home and is passionate about ensuring the city and wider Otago region remain great places to live, work and raise families.

She began her professional career as a registered nurse, spending over a decade in hospital and rural health services. Working in emergency care, palliative care, aged care and rural nursing, she developed a deep appreciation for the challenges facing New Zealand's health system and the importance of compassionate, practical leadership. During her nursing career she also served as a union representative, advocating for staff and contributing to successful pay equity negotiations. 

In her current role with the New Zealand First Leader’s Office, she works closely with MPs, community organisations and stakeholders throughout the South Island, building strong community connections, facilitating public engagement and ensuring local voices are heard in Parliament. 

Standing for New Zealand First in Dunedin, she is committed to championing local communities, supporting hardworking New Zealanders and ensuring government decisions reflect the realities faced by everyday families. Her focus is on listening, delivering practical outcomes and helping build a stronger future for Dunedin and New Zealand.