New dad-to-be can't hide his delight

Rodney Hide has been with Louise Crome since 2007. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Act leader Rodney Hide and his partner Louise Crome are planning a beach wedding for December and are expecting a baby to add to their love nest at the end of March.

"We're both overjoyed and very excited. It ends the year on the best possible note," Mr Hide said.

Mr Hide, 53, has been seeing Ms Crome, a retired squash player who is 21 years his junior, since 2007.

When asked if the wedding will be a pleasant change from the turmoil of this year, he said: "I've actually enjoyed the year immensely."

He said his challenge every day up until November 1 was the Auckland Super City.

"It was the biggest, toughest job ... and having got that done and ending on a high note with a baby is fantastic."

Mr Hide has a son, 21, who lives in Hong Kong.

The couple plan a small beach wedding for about 50 family and close friends before Christmas, followed by a short honeymoon.

Mr Hide proposed to Ms Crome this year at a picnic in Queenstown.

Ms Crome was accompanying Mr Hide as he attended a Local Government Forum, which he admits was not the most exhilarating prospect for a date.

He had packed a diamond ring with the food and wine.

Mr Hide said he knew the gender of the baby, but did not want to reveal it as other family members did not know yet. He said he and Ms Crome would like more children but that was "up to God".

Yesterday the Herald visited Mr Hide to take a photo with a pair of white booties.

"I'm so pleased the Herald gave us the very first present for our baby," he said. "It's very kind."