By Webfit News
A Webfit News Podcast Interview

Introduction

Carlos Cheung’s journey is anything but conventional.

A scientist by training, a business professional by experience, and now the Member of Parliament for Mount Roskill, Carlos represents a new generation of political leadership shaped by migration, resilience, and community service.

In an exclusive conversation with Webfit News, Carlos spoke openly about his transition from academia to politics, the challenges faced by migrants, why Mount Roskill mattered to him, and what real success looks like beyond titles and elections.

This interview has been edited for clarity and readability while preserving the intent and substance of Carlos’s responses.

“Scientist, Entrepreneur, or MP?” How Carlos Introduces Himself

Webfit News:
For people meeting you for the first time, how do you introduce yourself? As a scientist, an entrepreneur, or an MP?

Carlos Cheung:
It really depends on who I am speaking to. When I am back at university or talking to researchers, I introduce myself as a scientist. When I speak with health professionals, I mention my background in health sciences.

But when I speak to the wider community, I often say something simpler. I say I am here to serve. As an MP, I have access to more resources and networks, and that allows me to help people more effectively. At the core, service is what matters.

How His Different Careers Shape His Leadership

Webfit News:
Do these different backgrounds help you in your daily work as an MP?

Carlos Cheung:
Absolutely. Each phase of my life shaped how I see problems.

As a scientist, I was very academically focused and research-oriented. As a businessperson, I learned to think about sustainability, outcomes, and commercial reality. Now, as a politician, I see issues through a broader societal lens.

Sometimes I joke that when I was a scientist, I could not understand why funding decisions were made the way they were. After working in business, I understood the importance of outcomes and returns. As an MP, I now see everything from yet another angle. Each role added perspective.

Advice for Future Scientists

Webfit News:
If someone wants to pursue a career in science and needs guidance, can they reach out to you?

Carlos Cheung:
Yes, of course. I studied at the University of Auckland for almost twelve years, so I have enough experience to offer guidance.

Many young people ask whether they should do a master’s degree or a PhD. I help them think through those choices realistically and align education with long-term goals.

Why Politics?

Webfit News:
You have been a scientist and a businessperson. Why politics?

Carlos Cheung:
Politics was never my original plan.

When I transitioned from academia to business, it was difficult. In science, you believe your work can change lives, treat diseases, or make the world better. Business can feel very different at first. I struggled with that shift and asked myself many hard questions.

During that time, I started volunteering extensively in my community. I helped with food boxes, refugee education programmes, and career guidance for young people. I did this for years.

Eventually, I noticed something troubling. The same families were still coming for help year after year. Despite charity and support, their situations were not changing structurally.

That made me ask a bigger question. If I could not create long-term change at the community level, maybe I needed to work at a higher level. That is when I decided to step into politics.

Father First, MP Second

Webfit News:
Which role are you most proud of, Carlos the MP or Carlos the father?

Carlos Cheung:
Without hesitation, I am a father and a husband.

Being an MP is a responsibility, not an identity. Many people contribute to society in meaningful ways. My job just happens to be in Parliament.

At the end of the day, I want my daughter to be proud of the person I am, not just the title I hold.

From Hong Kong to New Zealand: A Migrant’s Perspective

Webfit News:
What part of your journey from Hong Kong to New Zealand shaped you the most?

Carlos Cheung:
Like many migrants, I faced language barriers, cultural differences, and lifestyle changes. It was challenging.

That experience built resilience. It taught me to work harder, to push myself beyond comfort zones.

Growing up in Hong Kong also gave me a global perspective. For example, Hong Kong has one of the best public transport systems in the world. That experience influences how I think about infrastructure and policy here in New Zealand.

Migrants bring different ideas and strengths. That diversity makes New Zealand stronger.

Why He Left Academia

Webfit News:
You earned a PhD in biological sciences. What made you leave academia?

Carlos Cheung:
In New Zealand, academic research relies heavily on government funding. Around 95 percent of my colleagues eventually moved overseas for career opportunities.

I stayed for several years, but eventually I had to decide. Family played a major role. When you are single, decisions are easy. When you have a family, you must consider what is best for everyone.

My wife is a pharmacist. Career portability and stability mattered. I also knew that New Zealand is a country where hard work is rewarded, regardless of industry. That belief encouraged me to build a new career here rather than leave.

Why the National Party?

Webfit News:
What led you to align with the National Party?

Carlos Cheung:
Many Asian families believe strongly in education, hard work, and opportunity. Those values align closely with National’s philosophy.

In Mount Roskill, I see many talented young people with huge potential. Education and job opportunities are key to helping them succeed. That alignment made the choice clear for me.

The Moment He Decided to Run

Webfit News:
Was there a defining moment when you decided to enter politics?

Carlos Cheung:
Yes. After years of volunteering, I realised that charity alone was not enough. Structural issues were holding people back.

I had tried everything at the community level. At that point, I felt the only way to create real change was to influence policy. That is when I decided to put my hand up.

Life as an MP: Influence and Responsibility

Webfit News:
Has becoming an MP changed how much impact you can make?

Carlos Cheung:
Yes, significantly. As an MP, people trust you more readily. You can bring organisations together and access resources that were previously out of reach.

For example, I helped secure patrol vehicles for community safety groups and organised support networks for isolated seniors. These things became possible because of the role.

Flipping Mount Roskill

Webfit News:
What went through your mind when you realised you had flipped Mount Roskill?

Carlos Cheung:
My first thought was responsibility. I asked myself how I could honour the trust people placed in me.

Being the first National MP to win Mount Roskill meant expectations were high. My focus immediately shifted to delivery.

What Drove the Swing in Votes?

Webfit News:
Why do you think voters shifted so strongly?

Carlos Cheung:
There were many factors. Cost of living, law and order, and frustration after COVID all played a role.

Crime was a major concern. Many people felt a soft approach was not working anymore. It was not one single issue, but a combination that led people to seek change.

Illegal Dirt Bikes and Local Safety

Webfit News:
Why did illegal dirt bikes become one of your first priorities?

Carlos Cheung:
They were a serious safety issue. Dirt bikes were being driven through parks and sports fields, endangering families and children.

I worked closely with the police to address the issue. Since then, complaints have reduced significantly, though we continue to monitor them.

Cost of Living and Jobs

Webfit News:
What are Mount Roskill families asking for most right now?

Carlos Cheung:
Cost of living is a major concern, but so is employment.

More than half of Mount Roskill residents were born overseas. Many migrants face barriers when applying for jobs, including bias based on accent or appearance. Fair job opportunities are essential for dignity and contribution.

Balancing Family and Politics

Webfit News:
How do you manage family life with such a demanding role?

Carlos Cheung:
It is challenging, but family comes first. Even if I only have an hour between commitments, I try to spend that time with my wife and daughter.

Serving the country is important, but so is being present for your family.

What Makes a Good Politician?

Webfit News:
Is there a right pathway into politics?

Carlos Cheung:
There is no single pathway. MPs come from many backgrounds.

The one common trait is a genuine desire to serve. Politics should not be about status or spotlight. It is about helping people.

His Legacy for Mount Roskill

Webfit News:
What legacy do you want to leave?

Carlos Cheung:
I want people to say I worked hard and made a difference.

Whether it is student showcases, job fairs, or community programmes, I want initiatives that encourage people and improve lives.

A Fun Fact About Carlos Cheung

Webfit News:
One fun fact most people do not know?

Carlos Cheung:
People think I am sleeping in Parliament because my eyes are small.

I am not sleeping. To fix this, I was advised to nod occasionally so people know I am listening. Now, if you watch closely, you will see me nodding a lot.

A Message to Webfit News Viewers

Webfit News:
Any message for our audience?

Carlos Cheung:
I want to thank Webfit News and everyone working in the media. People often see the final programme but not the hard work behind it.

The media plays a vital role in informing communities. That work deserves respect and appreciation.

Closing Note

This conversation offers a rare look into the personal values and motivations behind public office. Carlos Cheung’s story reflects the experiences of many migrants and the belief that service, when done sincerely, can create meaningful change.