I've read the commentary about Mike since he passed. The word "battler" is often used. Mike fought for people. He fought for what he believed in. He fought for New Zealand's interests around the world, and, as any politician does, he had his share of battles here in Parliament. Despite those battles, Mike loved Parliament and politics—the debate, the policy, the theatre—but, ultimately, he loved all of these things because he loved those he was here to serve. Mike was undeniably a unique man and a unique politician, or, as Sir Geoffrey Palmer put it, a force of nature. He was a kind, caring, and humble man. Where he saw wrong, he tried to right it. He deeply believed politics was ultimately about improving people's lives. 