Jacinda Ardern resigns as New Zealand Prime Minister

Jacinda Ardern held back tears as she announced her resignation as New Zealand’s prime minister at an emotional press conference.

His resignation takes effect on Sunday if the Labor Party can choose his replacement, or on February 7 if the process drags on.

Ms Ardern said she hoped to find the energy and heart over the Christmas holidays to stay at work, “but I haven’t been able to do that.”

‘I’m human. Politicians are human. We give everything we can for as long as we can, and then it’s time. And for me, it’s time,’ he said.

I know what this job requires. And I know I don’t have enough in the tank anymore to do it justice.

‘I’m leaving because such a privileged job comes with great responsibility. The responsibility of knowing when you are the right person to lead, and also when you are not.’

Ms Ardern steps down at 42 after becoming leader just over five years ago on October 26, 2017, and was New Zealand’s youngest prime minister.

She insisted that her party was trailing in the polls and the rival National Party ahead of the next election had nothing to do with her decision to resign.

“I’m not leaving because I think we can’t win the election, but because I think we can and we will,” he said.

“But we need a new set of shoulders for the challenges of this year and the next three.”

During her resignation speech, Ms Ardern announced that the next New Zealand election would take place on 14 October.

The resigning prime minister was asked if she would take up a post at the UN after leaving office and did not give a direct answer.

Instead, he insisted he had “no plans” other than to kick back with daughter Neve and marry fiance Clarke Gayford after their wedding was called off due to Covid restrictions.

“I’m really looking forward to spending time with my family once again…so for Neve, Mum can’t wait to be there when you start school this year, and for Clarke, let’s finally get married,” she said.

Ms Ardern imposed some of the toughest Covid restrictions in the world, only allowing visitors in less than a year ago.

Ms Ardern said she had not yet told her daughter of her plans because “four-year-olds are talkative, I couldn’t take the chance.”

She said she left with no regrets, offering a simple way she’d like to be remembered.

“As someone who always tried to be nice,” he said.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his admiration for his close ally and wished him well after politics.

‘Jacinda Ardern has shown the world how to lead with intellect and strength. She has shown that empathy and insight are powerful leadership qualities,” she said.

“Jacinda has been a fierce supporter of New Zealand, an inspiration to many and a great friend to me.”

more to come