Born in Foxton in the Manawatū region, Connell studied history and geography at Massey University.
[2] On 13 September 2006 TV3 News and The New Zealand Herald reported that Connell had confronted Brash during a National Party caucus meeting with allegations of an extramarital affair.
[3] Brash issued a statement later that same day,[4] declaring plans to take leave in order to sort out marital difficulties with his wife.
A statement released by the National Party said that Connell had failed to show the restraint and discipline expected of a caucus member, and that it had no confidence in him.
[6] Connell reportedly declared that he planned to grow his hair as a protest until the National Party changed its leader: he later denied this.