We asked new dad, Grey Lynn resident and property valuer, Clayton Munting to tell us all about his role as a father.
How has your life changed since Blake has come into your world?
With hindsight, my pre-daddy days were pretty self-indulgent, revolving around my valuation practice, Marianna and
a ‘soft spot’ for the bars and restaurants of Ponsonby. These days are about spending time with our precious little man and giving Marianna a break from being a busy mum. Happy wife, happy life.
What do you love most about being a dad?
Like most things in my life, I’ve been a slow starter including become a first time father at 50. But I do feel at a stage in my life that I can really appreciate being a dad. I guess I mean not too young and broke for it to be a horrendous struggle and still not too old and decrepit just yet! Nothing beats Blake’s grinning little happy face when he first sees me in the morning. Beaming with excitement and wonder.
What are you hoping for with Blake in terms of education, sport interest and career?
I was fortunate to have an idyllic upbringing in Nelson and with all of my family now back there, I wouldn’t discount a move south at some point. Amongst family and the best climate in the country, Blake would have the opportunity to do all the sports I did as
a child; sailing, water-skiing, tramping and skiing right on his door step. Both Marianna’s and my family are big on tertiary education, so I would hope Blake will have a solid and balanced education with an ability to problem-solve and cope with change, hopefully with a dash of entrepreneurial spirit. If he can make his hobby or interests into a career, he’ll feel like he’s never worked a day in his life.
Have you learned any lessons since being a dad?
For sure! Make the most of living the kiddy-free life while you can because once you have a child you are a parent forever, 24/7. There’s no sending them back. I’m certainly not complaining, I had a great run and I’m happy to embrace my current role as a daddy.
Would you ever consider being a stay-at-home dad?
Definitely. My intention is to condense the work in my valuation practice into three days so I have the remainder of the week to give Marianna some time off and spend it with Blake. Sadly, you only have to open the paper each day to realise how short life is. So
I guess like everything it’s about balance in life and definitely spending less time working to chase the dollar.
Who does he take after in terms of looks and personality?
Blake definitely has Marianna’s ‘island-style’ colouring. I suspect with his happy disposition and beaming smile he is likely to end up in constant ‘hot water’, if he inherits my slightly naughty personality.
Any plans for another?
I like the idea of four boys and having them all relatively close in age, so I guess we better get busy.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Maximum respect to all mothers, and fathers for that matter! It really is a big and busy job. But it’s the most rewarding job too!