Jacinda Ardern won’t be commenting on domestic politics in the future. She’s ready to be a backbencher, and she’s excited to be a sister and a mum.
And despite what some might be saying about her reasons for stepping down, she said her time as prime minister of New Zealand has been positive, with “overwhelming” levels of kindness from the people of New Zealand.
She has also promised great support to her “friend Chippy”: Chris Hipkins, her successor.
Ardern made the comments during her final speech as prime minister on Tuesday at the Rātana celebrations, an annual event that is seen as the beginning of the political year in New Zealand and attended by many politicians and Maori elders.
Interestingly, she didn’t spend significant time ticking off her shopping list of accomplishments in the job, as we typically see outgoing prime ministers do in Australia. Rather, she reserved her words for saying thank you to the people of New Zealand, as well as acknowledging the Labour team she worked with, and declaring that the country was in “good hands” under Hipkins.
Stepping up to speak, she also noted that it wasn’t her intention to address the crowd. But, laughing and noting the setup, “if you’re going to leave, then leave with a brass band!”
But she clearly also wanted to share her own take on some of the talk that has been circulating regarding why she is stepping down, especially where some may believe it comes down to her treatment in the role.
“There’s been a little bit of discussion since I made my announcement about my resignation,” she said.
“For my part, 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.
“That is what the majority of New Zealand has shown to me,” she said.
“I want you to know that I leave with a greater love and affection for Aotearoa New Zealand, and its people, than when I started. I didn’t think that was possible.”
“So my final words are this… Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. For the greatest privilege of my life.”
Ardern said how special it was to be at Rātana, especially as it was one of the first places she came to when she announced she was having a baby. She recalled feeling great “trepidation” about announcing the news with New Zealand, but that it was received warmly during that visit.
“It also feels special to be here with my colleague. I can say hand on heart, this is a group of exceptional people who have the privilege of leading New Zealand. I never did this job alone… I leave knowing you are in the best of hands.”
Ardern has also said what we can expect from her going forward.
“You won’t find me commentating on domestic politics – I’ve had my time, it’s now for the new team,” she said.
“I’m ready to be many things. I’m ready to be a backbench MP.
“I’m ready to be a sister and a mum.”
Ardern also hopes to spend time with her electorate, sharing that she will be seen in the local community until she officially steps down as the MP of Mt Albert in April.
She gave a special mention to Chippy, saying she has known him for many years. “You knew me as Aunty, I hope you know him as Chippy. Because it speaks to him as a person. Personable, down to earth, and good with tools,” she laughed. “I know you’ll be a wonderful prime minister.”
Chris Hipkins was sworn in as the 41st prime minister of New Zealand on Wednesday morning.
Ardern shared the surprise news last week that she was stepping down, stating that she didn’t have enough “left in the tank” to continue with another term.
“I’m leaving, because with such a privileged role comes responsibility. The responsibility to know when you are the right person to lead and also when you are not. I know what this job takes. And I know that I no longer have enough in the tank to do it justice. It’s that simple,” she said last week.
“I am human, politicians are human. We give all that we can for as long as we can. And then it’s time. And for me, it’s time.”