During her 15-year career in politics, Paula served as Deputy Prime Minister and a Cabinet minister with portfolios including social development, associate finance, state services, police and local government. She is currently the Director of Strategic Advisory at Bayleys Real Estate, Pharmac Board Chair and Board Chair of Sea Cleaners. Paula also has a podcast with the NZ Herald that is in its 6th season.

Paula is Maori with Tainui ancestry.