‘I am human’: Tearful Jacinda Ardern resigns as NZ PM

An emotional Jacinda Ardern has choked back tears while announcing she will stand down as New Zealand Prime Minister.

She said she had hoped to find the energy and heart to continue in the role over summer, “but I have not been able to do that”.

She said she had reflected on her own future. “This has been the most fulfilling five and a half years of my life,” Ardern said.

A caucus vote will happen on Sunday for a new Party leader – and new Prime Minister.

Grant Robertson told Ardern he would not be putting his name forward to be PM.

Labour had taken the decision to choose a new leader within three days.
 

An emotional Jacinda Ardern has choked back tears while announcing she will stand down as New Zealand Prime Minister.

She said she had hoped to find the energy and heart to continue in the role over summer, “but I have not been able to do that”.

She said she had reflected on her own future. “This has been the most fulfilling five and a half years of my life,” Ardern said.

A caucus vote will happen on Sunday for a new Party leader – and new Prime Minister.

Grant Robertson told Ardern he would not be putting his name forward to be PM.

Labour had taken the decision to choose a new leader within three days.
 

Ardern, who will leave office on February 7, said her team were well placed to take the country forward and contest the next election, which will be held on October 14.

“I am not leaving because I believe we can’t win the election but because I believe we can and will.”

Australia’s PM Anthony Albanese praised Ardern’s leadership.

“Jacinda Ardern has shown the world how to lead with intellect and strength,” he said.

“She has demonstrated that empathy and insight are powerful leadership qualities.

“Jacinda has been a fierce advocate for New Zealand, an inspiration to so many and a great friend to me.”