John Key was born on August 9, 1961, in Auckland, New Zealand. He grew up in a middle-class family and attended Burnside High School in Christchurch. After graduating, he went on to study at the University of Canterbury, where he earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree in 1981.
After completing his education, Key began working in the finance industry. He started at Elders Finance in 1982 and then moved to Bankers Trust in 1988. In 1995, he became the head of foreign exchange at Merrill Lynch, where he remained until 2001. Key's success in the financial sector allowed him to amass a considerable fortune, which would later aid in his political career.
In 2002, Key decided to enter the world of politics by joining the New Zealand National Party. His charisma and business acumen quickly caught the attention of party leaders, and he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Helensville in 2002. Key's rise through the ranks was swift, and in 2006, he became the Leader of the National Party.
In 2008, John Key led the National Party to victory in the general elections, becoming the 38th Prime Minister of New Zealand. During his tenure, Key implemented several key policies, including economic reforms and infrastructure development projects. One of his most significant decisions was the withdrawal of New Zealand's forces from Afghanistan, which was met with both praise and criticism.
John Key married his wife Bronagh in 1984, and together they have two children. Key's son, Max Key, gained attention for his career as a DJ and social media presence. Despite his busy schedule as Prime Minister, Key always made time for his family and frequently attended church services, despite identifying as agnostic.
After serving three terms as Prime Minister, John Key announced his resignation in 2016, citing personal reasons. His departure from politics was met with mixed reactions, with many praising his leadership skills and economic policies, while others criticized his handling of certain social issues. Nevertheless, Key remains a prominent figure in New Zealand politics and continues to be involved in various charitable endeavors.
Overall, John Key's career has been marked by his ability to navigate the complexities of both the financial world and politics. His legacy as a Prime Minister who prioritized economic growth and stability will continue to shape New Zealand's future for years to come.