There were cheers in Parliament on Wednesday as National MP Tim van de Molen gave his first speech since being involved in an accident that left him hospitalised with broken arms.
The Waikato MP in February revealed he had suffered serious injuries - including two broken arms and spinal and rib fractures - after falling from a platform. He was hospitalised and underwent several surgeries.
He took time off from Parliament to recover, but streamed into the House on Wednesday with his first speech since the accident.
After being called to speak by Speaker Trevor Mallard, cheers could be heard from MPs and Mallard said "welcome".
"Can I start by firstly thanking members from across the House who have reached out with offers of support over the last couple of months," van de Molen said.
"It's been a particularly challenging time and I really appreciate those who have reached across political boundaries, in particular, to express their concern and their well-wishes for my recovery."
Watch his full speech above.
