Leading New Zealand was ‘greatest privilege’, says Jacinda Ardern at final event
New Zealand’s soon-to-be ex-Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has said leading the country was “the greatest privilege of my life.” Ardern leaves the role on Wednesday, less than a week after her shocking announcement she was quitting.
“I leave with a greater love and affection for Aotearoa New Zealand and its people than when I started,” Arden said at her final event as prime minister. “I didn’t think that was possible.”
PM Jacinda Ardern was speaking at the annual birthday celebration for the Māori prophet Tahupōtiki Wiremu Rātana, founder of the Rātana faith. The event is the unofficial start to the political year in New Zealand and sees leaders of parties gather on the North Island village, along with followers of the faith.
Labour’s Chris Hipkins – who will take over the role of PM on Wednesday and leader of the opposition Christopher Luxon appeared to accuse each other’s party of sowing fear or division on Māori issues in their speeches.
However, Jacinda Ardern was the star of the show, receiving a rapturous welcome as she arrived to cheers, hugs and requests for selfies. She had not intended to speak at the event, she said, but her hosts had rejected that plan.
“I want you to know that my overwhelming experience in this job, of New Zealand and New Zealanders, has been one of love, empathy and kindness,” she said. “That is what the majority of New Zealand has shown to me.”
‘Thank you prime minister’
A number of Māori leaders used the moment to express their support for Jacinda Ardern as a leader and person, while remaining critical of some policies.
“I wear my political allegiances here,” said Che Wilson, Māori party president, pointing to indigenous designs patterning his attire, “but prime minister, it is only right that we say thank you.” As the crowd erupted into applause he continued: “Again, thank you.”
“The attack on families because of political decisions is just unacceptable,” said Rahui Papa, of Tainui. “[You’ve said] there is no petrol left in the tank, but the petrol pump has always been there. We would have helped you prime minister – and we will help you in future.”
He said Ardern would always be welcome at Rātana, and said to her to “return time and time and time again.”
