The real reason behind Clarke Gayford's new dad beard

The first dad of New Zealand, Clarke Gayford, has come out this week sporting an incredible beard. 

The keen fisherman and partner of our Prime Minister, Jacinda Adern, looked happy and extremely content as the young couple talked to media about parenthood, but the elephant in the room was, in fact, Gayford’s new facial accessory.

Taking to Twitter, Clarke wanted to clear the air about the reason behind his new look.

• READ MORE: Clarke Gayford reveals the baby hacks he's learnt in first month of parenthood

“I'm not immune to the chatter and I feel I need to front foot the fact that yes; I've grown a beard, to fit in, in Wellington. Feel free to drop pin me good craft beer locations, I want the whole experience.”

Good on you Clarke! We hope you start rocking the dad bod too.

This article was originally published on Spy and is reproduced here with permission.