Living in lockdown is a challenge for everyone, even our local politicians.

In the first of a series of more lighthearted interviews, Rotorua Now reporter Matthew Martin asks the Labour Party MP for Waiariki, Tamati Coffey, what he's doing while in his bubble.

Where are you in lockdown?

I'm at home in Owhata at Hinemoa Point.

Who are you in lockdown with?

My mum, dad, sister, her partner, my partner Tim, our baby Tutanekai and our three dogs. It's a big bubble but I'm at home with my loved ones. It's my home, my castle.

Are you working from home? What are you up to?

Yes, working from home. Connecting with my colleagues, including our Prime Minister, and connecting to my kumara vine around the electorate using social media, emails, phone calls, text and Zoom - which has become my favourite new app - while feeding the baby and managing the bubble!

How do you pass the time when not working?

I go for walks around my neighbourhood. And I used the oven for the first time the other day to bake some scones. Tino reka!

What advice would you give to people in lockdown?

Stay home, save lives. But since you have to be there, try to enjoy it. Clean up around the house. Innovate to exercise. Be inclusive. Eat together. Laugh together.

Do you have a message for people who are struggling with all of this?

We as a Government are doing everything we can to make sure that New Zealanders are going to come out of this with as few fatalities as possible. If you are struggling, phone a friend. Reach out to someone who can reassure you that we are all in this together.

What's the first thing you want to do when you come out of lockdown?

Head down to Eat Streat and have a cocktail at Ponsonby Rd and then some good Kiwi kai at Our House.