He said he liked Mau "very much" and acknowledged that the family had known about his daughter's sexuality for many years and had no problems with it.
"We're all very close. I can't say any more because that's their thing. But my daughter owns one of the best dance schools in Auckland, as well. That's all I can give you then, love."
Mau split with husband One News anchor Simon Dallow in 2009. The couple have two children.
It is understood that as well as her proposal to Ms Edmonds a week ago, Mau also finalised her divorce to Dallow about the same time.
In 2010, Mau publicly revealed her bisexuality at the Queen of the Whole Universe beauty pageant show, in Auckland.
She introduced Ms Edmonds to the crowd and said she was "proud to be standing amongst the [gay] community".
The move came after weeks of speculation about her sexuality was played out in the media.
Director of the pageant and friend of Mau's, Jonathan Smith, yesterday said he was thrilled to hear the news of the couple's engagement.
"I'm absolutely delighted they've got engaged and wish them all the best. I've known Ali for some years ... she chose to declare that she was a lesbian at our show - on stage.
"I encouraged her to do that in a safe environment and the show was definitely [that]. Karleen accompanied her on the night and that was lovely."
Mr Smith said he did not know a lot about Ms Edmonds but had met her on several occasions and said they looked good together.
"They're bloody hot - and that's coming from a gay man."
Mau, who has been involved in previous pageants over the years, has been asked to be the head judge in this year's event, to be held in July.
Neither Mau nor Ms Edmonds returned calls last night.
