Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern recently announced her plans to write a book, emphasising leadership over politics.

In an Instagram post, Ardern addressed the inquiries she often receives about whether she will document her five-year tenure as New Zealand's leader, as reported by the Associated Press.

Initially hesitant to delve into internal politics, Ardern's perspective shifted after being convinced that she could expand on the idea of being a unique leader who can still make a difference. This upcoming book aims to inspire and resonate with readers beyond the realm of politics, focusing on personal leadership and the potential for positive change.

<h2>Exploring a different angle of leadership</h2>

Ardern expressed her desire to deviate from the conventional approach of scrutinising internal political dynamics throughout her time as Prime Minister.

Instead, she intends to delve into the aspects she discussed during her valedictory speech, emphasising the notion that individuals can be their own kind of leaders while still effecting meaningful change.

By shifting the focus from politics to leadership, Ardern aims to present a broader perspective that inspires readers to discover their own unique paths towards making a difference.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-ex-pm-jacinda-ardern-felicitated-with-top-leadership-honour-during-covid-terror-attacks-600668">&nbsp;New Zealand ex-PM Jacinda Ardern gets top honour for leadership during Covid, terror attacks</a>

<h2>Publication details and purpose</h2>

While no specific publication date has been announced, Ardern expressed her hope that the book, once completed, will have a profound impact, particularly on her 14-year-old self.

The absence of a predetermined timeline indicates Ardern's commitment to crafting a meaningful narrative that will resonate with readers across generations.

By sharing her experiences and insights, she aspires to inspire young individuals and impart valuable leadership lessons that transcend the confines of political arenas.

At the age of 37, Jacinda Ardern assumed office as New Zealand's Prime Minister in 2017, quickly becoming a global symbol of progressive values. Her decision to step down earlier this year, citing insufficient energy to fulfill her responsibilities during an election year, surprised many New Zealanders. Despite her departure from politics, Ardern's influence continues to extend beyond the realm of governance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-just-happened-reason-for-jacinda-arderns-shocking-resignation-as-new-zealand-prime-minister-554061">What just happened? Reason for Jacinda Ardern's shocking resignation as New Zealand Prime Minister</a>

<h2>Embracing new opportunities</h2>

'Since leaving office, Ardern has embraced fresh endeavours, including her temporary affiliation with Harvard University, where she will undertake dual fellowships at the Harvard Kennedy School. Additionally, she has taken on an unpaid role dedicated to combating online extremism, further exemplifying her commitment to effecting positive change beyond the political sphere. These endeavours showcase Ardern's dedication to continuous growth and her pursuit of diverse avenues to make a difference in society.

Jacinda Ardern's upcoming book marks a departure from traditional political memoirs, with a deliberate focus on leadership rather than internal politics.

(With&nbsp;inputs from agencies)

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Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern recently announced her plans to write a book, emphasising leadership over politics. In an Instagram post, Ardern addressed the inquiries she often receives about whether she will document her five-year tenure as New Zealand's leader, as reported by the Associated Press.

Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern recently announced her plans to write a book, emphasising leadership over politics. In an Instagram post, Ardern addressed the inquiries she often receives about whether she will document her five-year tenure as New Zealand's leader, as reported by the Associated Press. Initially hesitant to delve into internal politics, Ardern's perspective shifted after being convinced that she could expand on the idea of being a unique leader who can still make a difference. This upcoming book aims to inspire and resonate with readers beyond the realm of politics, focusing on personal leadership and the potential for positive change. Exploring a different angle of leadership Ardern expressed her desire to deviate from the conventional approach of scrutinising internal political dynamics throughout her time as Prime Minister. Instead, she intends to delve into the aspects she discussed during her valedictory speech, emphasising the notion that individuals can be their own kind of leaders while still effecting meaningful change. By shifting the focus from politics to leadership, Ardern aims to present a broader perspective that inspires readers to discover their own unique paths towards making a difference. Also read | New Zealand ex-PM Jacinda Ardern gets top honour for leadership during Covid, terror attacks Publication details and purpose While no specific publication date has been announced, Ardern expressed her hope that the book, once completed, will have a profound impact, particularly on her 14-year-old self. The absence of a predetermined timeline indicates Ardern's commitment to crafting a meaningful narrative that will resonate with readers across generations. By sharing her experiences and insights, she aspires to inspire young individuals and impart valuable leadership lessons that transcend the confines of political arenas. At the age of 37, Jacinda Ardern assumed office as New Zealand's Prime Minister in 2017, quickly becoming a global symbol of progressive values. Her decision to step down earlier this year, citing insufficient energy to fulfill her responsibilities during an election year, surprised many New Zealanders. Despite her departure from politics, Ardern's influence continues to extend beyond the realm of governance. Also read | What just happened? Reason for Jacinda Ardern's shocking resignation as New Zealand Prime Minister Embracing new opportunities 'Since leaving office, Ardern has embraced fresh endeavours, including her temporary affiliation with Harvard University, where she will undertake dual fellowships at the Harvard Kennedy School. Additionally, she has taken on an unpaid role dedicated to combating online extremism, further exemplifying her commitment to effecting positive change beyond the political sphere. These endeavours showcase Ardern's dedication to continuous growth and her pursuit of diverse avenues to make a difference in society. Jacinda Ardern's upcoming book marks a departure from traditional political memoirs, with a deliberate focus on leadership rather than internal politics. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ex-New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern ventures into authorship, penning book on leadership

Jacinda Ardern, the former prime minister of New Zealand, will assume a new position where she will work with other governments and social media companies to combat extremist and terrorist content online.&nbsp;

Ardern was named special envoy for the Christchurch Call, a newly created position, by Prime Minister Chris Hipkins on Tuesday night, reported the Guardian.

After the Christchurch mosque killings on March 15, 2019, in which a white supremacist attacked two mosques and killed 51 people, Ardern founded The Christchurch Call.

In the months that followed the attack, Ardern launched the initiative to pressure social media companies like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter to implement stronger safeguards against the spread of extremist violent content. The attack was livestreamed and broadcast on a number of social media platforms.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/credit-suisse-chairman-apologises-for-banks-demise-in-last-shareholders-meeting-579096">Credit Suisse chairman apologises for bank's demise in last shareholders' meeting</a>

“I … still feel a duty at a personal level to the commu nity who are affected by this tragedy,” Ardern said in an interview on Tuesday evening, her first since her resignation in January. “I knew that I would have the time to do it. And I certainly have the passion for it,” she said.

“The March 15 terror attacks on Christchurch masjidain were a defining moment for our country and Jacinda Ardern’s leadership and the Christchurch Call is part of our response to those attacks,” Hipkins said.

“Jacinda Ardern’s commitment to stopping violent extremist content like we saw that day is key to why she should carry on this work. Her relationships with leaders and technology companies and her drive for change will help increase the pace and ambition of the work we are doing,” he said.

The Christchurch Call project encourages member countries to enact and implement laws that prohibit offensive content and establish standards for how traditional media can cover terrorist acts without amplifying them.&nbsp;

After significant rifts over vaccination, the nation's response to Covid, and Ardern as a personality surfaced, the former prime minister remarked in her first significant media appearances since resigning that she thought her resignation may calm the political discourse in New Zealand.

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Jacinda Ardern, the former prime minister of New Zealand, will assume a new position where she will work with other governments and social media companies to combat extremist and terrorist content online.

Jacinda Ardern, the former prime minister of New Zealand, will assume a new position where she will work with other governments and social media companies to combat extremist and terrorist content online. Ardern was named special envoy for the Christchurch Call, a newly created position, by Prime Minister Chris Hipkins on Tuesday night, reported the Guardian. After the Christchurch mosque killings on March 15, 2019, in which a white supremacist attacked two mosques and killed 51 people, Ardern founded The Christchurch Call. In the months that followed the attack, Ardern launched the initiative to pressure social media companies like Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter to implement stronger safeguards against the spread of extremist violent content. The attack was livestreamed and broadcast on a number of social media platforms. ALSO READ | Credit Suisse chairman apologises for bank's demise in last shareholders' meeting “I … still feel a duty at a personal level to the commu nity who are affected by this tragedy,” Ardern said in an interview on Tuesday evening, her first since her resignation in January. “I knew that I would have the time to do it. And I certainly have the passion for it,” she said. “The March 15 terror attacks on Christchurch masjidain were a defining moment for our country and Jacinda Ardern’s leadership and the Christchurch Call is part of our response to those attacks,” Hipkins said. “Jacinda Ardern’s commitment to stopping violent extremist content like we saw that day is key to why she should carry on this work. Her relationships with leaders and technology companies and her drive for change will help increase the pace and ambition of the work we are doing,” he said. The Christchurch Call project encourages member countries to enact and implement laws that prohibit offensive content and establish standards for how traditional media can cover terrorist acts without amplifying them. After significant rifts over vaccination, the nation's response to Covid, and Ardern as a personality surfaced, the former prime minister remarked in her first significant media appearances since resigning that she thought her resignation may calm the political discourse in New Zealand. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern to tackle online extremism as special envoy for Christchurch Call

Jacinda Ardern was officially replaced on Wednesday (January 25)&nbsp;as New Zealand's prime minister, after her announcement to step down from the position last week.&nbsp;At a ceremony in Wellington, the country's capital, 44-year-old Chris Hipkins was sworn in as prime minister by New Zealand's governor-general.

This is the biggest privilege and responsibility of my life," Hipkins said after formally taking office.&nbsp;

"I'm energized and excited by the challenges ahead," he added.

After leading the nation through a series of natural crises, its worst-ever terrorist attack, and the Covid-19 outbreak, Ardern said last week that she no longer had "enough in the tank."

Earlier on Wednesday (January 25), she made her final public appearance as prime minister, leaving the iconic Beehive parliament building to a spontaneous wave of applause from hundreds of spectators.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-posts-another-100-against-new-zealand-as-partnership-with-rohit-reaches-200-milestone-555479">Shubman Gill posts another 100 against New Zealand as partnership with Rohit reaches 200 milestone</a>

One of the first to express gratitude to Ardern was Prince William. During her five years in office, Ardern rose to become a leading figure in progressive politics around the world.

"Thank you&nbsp;Jacinda&nbsp;Ardern for your friendship, leadership and support over the years, not least at the time of my grandmother's death," he wrote on his official Twitter account.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Jacinda Ardern was officially replaced on Wednesday (January 25) as New Zealand's prime minister, after her announcement to step down from the position last week.

Jacinda Ardern was officially replaced on Wednesday (January 25) as New Zealand's prime minister, after her announcement to step down from the position last week. At a ceremony in Wellington, the country's capital, 44-year-old Chris Hipkins was sworn in as prime minister by New Zealand's governor-general. This is the biggest privilege and responsibility of my life," Hipkins said after formally taking office. "I'm energized and excited by the challenges ahead," he added. After leading the nation through a series of natural crises, its worst-ever terrorist attack, and the Covid-19 outbreak, Ardern said last week that she no longer had "enough in the tank." Earlier on Wednesday (January 25), she made her final public appearance as prime minister, leaving the iconic Beehive parliament building to a spontaneous wave of applause from hundreds of spectators. Also read | Shubman Gill posts another 100 against New Zealand as partnership with Rohit reaches 200 milestone One of the first to express gratitude to Ardern was Prince William. During her five years in office, Ardern rose to become a leading figure in progressive politics around the world. "Thank you Jacinda Ardern for your friendship, leadership and support over the years, not least at the time of my grandmother's death," he wrote on his official Twitter account. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Jacinda Ardern replaced with  Chris Hipkins as New Zealand PM at official ceremony

Chris Hipkins is all set to become the 41st Prime Minister of New Zealand, replacing Jacinda Ardern who abruptly decided to step down from the post saying that she no longer had "enough in the tank".&nbsp;The 44-year-old minister, who oversees police and education departments, was the sole contender for the top post. He will formally assume the role on Sunday.

Here’s what we know about Hipkins who is seen as a "tough and capable" politician.

<h2>Lauded for fight against Covid</h2>

During his stint as the health minister when the Covid virus swept the entire world, Hipkins led a tough fight on the home front. During his two-year term, he was lauded for his Covid response as he had shut the country’s borders to keep the virus at bay, only fully reopening to the outside world in August last year.

He subsequently eased Covid lockdowns and said they had to be eased as people were unable to endure the restrictions.

According to political commentator Josie Pagani, Hipkins, with more than 14 years in opposition and government, is "sensible, likeable, tough and capable", reports AFP news agency.

<h2>Stint as police minister</h2>

Hipkins was appointed as the police minister in June last year amidst criticism against the government’s record on crime. Apart from health minister, he also served as public service minister.

<h2>Chris Hipkins to become New Zealand Prime Minister replacing Jacinda Ardern</h2>

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"Chris is decisive and will be an incredibly strong prime minister," said Justice Minister Kiri Allan, one of Labour's senior Maori MPs, who had been considered a potential prime minister herself.

"He is extremely competent, with a track record of delivering for New Zealand as one of our most senior ministers over the past six years," she said.

<h2>‘Outdoor enthusiast’</h2>

Hipkins is a self-described an "outdoor enthusiast" who likes mountain biking, hiking and swimming.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chris-hipkins-to-replace-jacinda-arden-as-new-zealands-next-prime-minister-554613">Chris Hipkins to replace Jacinda Ardern as New Zealand's next prime minister</a>

He has studied politics and criminology at Victoria University and then worked in the industry training sector.

He was elected as an MP in 2008. Previously, he worked as a senior adviser to two education ministers and former prime minister Helen Clark.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Chris Hipkins is all set to become the 41st Prime Minister of New Zealand, replacing Jacinda Ardern who abruptly decided to step down from the post saying that she no longer had "enough in the tank".

Chris Hipkins is all set to become the 41st Prime Minister of New Zealand, replacing Jacinda Ardern who abruptly decided to step down from the post saying that she no longer had "enough in the tank". The 44-year-old minister, who oversees police and education departments, was the sole contender for the top post. He will formally assume the role on Sunday. Here’s what we know about Hipkins who is seen as a "tough and capable" politician. Lauded for fight against Covid During his stint as the health minister when the Covid virus swept the entire world, Hipkins led a tough fight on the home front. During his two-year term, he was lauded for his Covid response as he had shut the country’s borders to keep the virus at bay, only fully reopening to the outside world in August last year. He subsequently eased Covid lockdowns and said they had to be eased as people were unable to endure the restrictions. According to political commentator Josie Pagani, Hipkins, with more than 14 years in opposition and government, is "sensible, likeable, tough and capable", reports AFP news agency. Stint as police minister Hipkins was appointed as the police minister in June last year amidst criticism against the government’s record on crime. Apart from health minister, he also served as public service minister. Chris Hipkins to become New Zealand Prime Minister replacing Jacinda Ardern "Chris is decisive and will be an incredibly strong prime minister," said Justice Minister Kiri Allan, one of Labour's senior Maori MPs, who had been considered a potential prime minister herself. "He is extremely competent, with a track record of delivering for New Zealand as one of our most senior ministers over the past six years," she said. ‘Outdoor enthusiast’ Hipkins is a self-described an "outdoor enthusiast" who likes mountain biking, hiking and swimming. Also read | Chris Hipkins to replace Jacinda Ardern as New Zealand's next prime minister He has studied politics and criminology at Victoria University and then worked in the industry training sector. He was elected as an MP in 2008. Previously, he worked as a senior adviser to two education ministers and former prime minister Helen Clark. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Who is Chris Hipkins, set to become New Zealand’s new PM?

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern shock move to step down as the New Zealand Prime Minister on 7 February made headlines on Thursday as she made the announcement. What just happened? Prime Minister Ardern turned heads and grabbed eyeballs for her efficient management through the COVID-19 pandemic and her leadership at times of crisis. She became the world's youngest female head of government at age 37. The leadership change comes ahead of the October elections. With this, Labour Party will now have to come up with a new face for the general election scheduled for 14 October 2023. So, what is the possible reason for Jacinda to take the decision to step down as New Zealand PM?&nbsp;

<h2>Burnout and other possible reasons&nbsp;</h2>

During her announcement to step down as New Zealand PM, Ardern said that she no longer has enough in the tank to do [the role] justice and that there are others around her who do. ‘This summer, I had hoped to find a way to prepare for not just another year, but another term – because that is what this year requires. I have not been able to do that," she said. The speech can possibly indicate that the PM had burnout. WHO defines burn-out as a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. According to the global health organization, it is characterized by feelings of exhaustion, increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one’s job and reduced professional efficacy.&nbsp;

Though Jacinda was praised for her leadership during the COVID pandemic, there were some pressure points from the business community. Following lockdowns brought on by COVID, New Zealand's corporate community was under stress and agitation. According to reports, the extended lockdown resulted in poor revenues and worry over jobs at the enterprises.

During parliamentary debate earlier, the prime minister’s muttered remark was caught on a hot mic after a series of questions from David Seymour, leader of New Zealand’s libertarian right Act party. “He’s such an arrogant prick," she said as she took her seat next to deputy prime minister and close political ally Grant Robertson. After Seymour demanded an apology, her microphone picked up the remark and recorded it in the official parliamentary record, Hansard.

Earlier, during a parliamentary discussion, New Zealand Act party leader David Seymour, asked a series of questions that resulted in the prime minister making a mumbled statement that was recorded on mic. As she sat down next to deputy prime minister and close political supporter Grant Robertson, she said, "He's such an arrogant prick."&nbsp;

<h2>What's next for New Zealand leadership?&nbsp;</h2>

Now, to elect the next leader for the next ten months, Labour party members will vote on 22 January. There are now no obvious frontrunners, but it won't be long until Labour MPs enter the race. Grant Robertson, the deputy prime minister and minister of finance, has already ruled him out from the campaign despite having competed for office in 2014.

 
&nbsp;

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern shock move to step down as the New Zealand Prime Minister on 7 February made headlines on Thursday as she made the announcement.

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern shock move to step down as the New Zealand Prime Minister on 7 February made headlines on Thursday as she made the announcement. What just happened? Prime Minister Ardern turned heads and grabbed eyeballs for her efficient management through the COVID-19 pandemic and her leadership at times of crisis. She became the world's youngest female head of government at age 37. The leadership change comes ahead of the October elections. With this, Labour Party will now have to come up with a new face for the general election scheduled for 14 October 2023. So, what is the possible reason for Jacinda to take the decision to step down as New Zealand PM? Burnout and other possible reasons During her announcement to step down as New Zealand PM, Ardern said that she no longer has enough in the tank to do [the role] justice and that there are others around her who do. ‘This summer, I had hoped to find a way to prepare for not just another year, but another term – because that is what this year requires. I have not been able to do that," she said. The speech can possibly indicate that the PM had burnout. WHO defines burn-out as a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. According to the global health organization, it is characterized by feelings of exhaustion, increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one’s job and reduced professional efficacy. Though Jacinda was praised for her leadership during the COVID pandemic, there were some pressure points from the business community. Following lockdowns brought on by COVID, New Zealand's corporate community was under stress and agitation. According to reports, the extended lockdown resulted in poor revenues and worry over jobs at the enterprises. During parliamentary debate earlier, the prime minister’s muttered remark was caught on a hot mic after a series of questions from David Seymour, leader of New Zealand’s libertarian right Act party. “He’s such an arrogant prick," she said as she took her seat next to deputy prime minister and close political ally Grant Robertson. After Seymour demanded an apology, her microphone picked up the remark and recorded it in the official parliamentary record, Hansard. Earlier, during a parliamentary discussion, New Zealand Act party leader David Seymour, asked a series of questions that resulted in the prime minister making a mumbled statement that was recorded on mic. As she sat down next to deputy prime minister and close political supporter Grant Robertson, she said, "He's such an arrogant prick." What's next for New Zealand leadership? Now, to elect the next leader for the next ten months, Labour party members will vote on 22 January. There are now no obvious frontrunners, but it won't be long until Labour MPs enter the race. Grant Robertson, the deputy prime minister and minister of finance, has already ruled him out from the campaign despite having competed for office in 2014.

What just happened? Reason for Jacinda Ardern's shocking resignation as New Zealand Prime Minister

Jacinda Ardern, the prime minister of New Zealand, has shocked the nation by announcing that she will be stepping down from the position as early as February. In a televised statement, she said she will&nbsp;not run for re-election in 2023. Ardern stated that she was confident New Zealand Labor will win in the forthcoming election.

Holding back tears, Ardern said it had been a tough five and a half years as prime minister and that she was only human and needed to step aside.

"This summer, I had hoped to find a way to prepare for not just another year, but another term - because that is what this year requires. I have not been able to do that," Ardern, 42, told a news conference.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jacinda-ardern-asked-if-she-met-finland-pm-because-of-similar-age-gender-538838">Jacinda Ardern snaps at scribe for asking if she met Finland PM because of similar age, gender</a>

"I know there will be much discussion in the aftermath of this decision as to what the so called 'real' reason was... The only interesting angle you will find is that after going on six years of some big challenges, that I am human," she continued. "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."

She told her daughter Neve that she was looking forward to being there when she started school this year.&nbsp;She also intends to marry her longtime partner Clarke Gayford soon.

After serving as prime minister for five years, Ardern would have run in a tough 2023 election. Despite winning re-election two years ago with historic proportions, Arden's liberal Labour Party is now behind its conservative opponents as per&nbsp;recent surveys.

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Meanwhile, New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson, who also serves as finance minister, said he would not seek to stand as the next Labour leader.

In December 2022, Ardern&nbsp;got embroiled in a fiasco after her comments against the head of an opposition party were picked up by parliament microphones during a debate. After giving a passionate response to the leader's query, Ardern&nbsp;sat down and muttered, "Such an arrogant prick."

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Jacinda Ardern, the prime minister of New Zealand, has shocked the nation by announcing that she will be stepping down from the position as early as February. In a televised statement, she said she will not run for re-election in 2023.

Jacinda Ardern, the prime minister of New Zealand, has shocked the nation by announcing that she will be stepping down from the position as early as February. In a televised statement, she said she will not run for re-election in 2023. Ardern stated that she was confident New Zealand Labor will win in the forthcoming election. Holding back tears, Ardern said it had been a tough five and a half years as prime minister and that she was only human and needed to step aside. "This summer, I had hoped to find a way to prepare for not just another year, but another term - because that is what this year requires. I have not been able to do that," Ardern, 42, told a news conference. Also Read | Jacinda Ardern snaps at scribe for asking if she met Finland PM because of similar age, gender "I know there will be much discussion in the aftermath of this decision as to what the so called 'real' reason was... The only interesting angle you will find is that after going on six years of some big challenges, that I am human," she continued. "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." She told her daughter Neve that she was looking forward to being there when she started school this year. She also intends to marry her longtime partner Clarke Gayford soon. After serving as prime minister for five years, Ardern would have run in a tough 2023 election. Despite winning re-election two years ago with historic proportions, Arden's liberal Labour Party is now behind its conservative opponents as per recent surveys. × Meanwhile, New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson, who also serves as finance minister, said he would not seek to stand as the next Labour leader. In December 2022, Ardern got embroiled in a fiasco after her comments against the head of an opposition party were picked up by parliament microphones during a debate. After giving a passionate response to the leader's query, Ardern sat down and muttered, "Such an arrogant prick." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

An emotional Jacinda Ardern announces she will step down as New Zealand PM next month

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is auctioning off a transcript of a parliamentary exchange where she called her political opponent David Seymour an ''arrogant prick''. The auction is being done to raise money for a prostate cancer charity.

A report by news agency AFP on Friday said that bidding for the framed copy of the document, signed by Ardern and Seymour, reached NZ $45,500 (US$29,000) in an online auction. The bidding is due to close on December 22.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-pm-jacinda-ardern-caught-on-hot-mic-calling-rival-leader-as-arrogant-prick-later-apologises-542721">New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern caught on hot mic calling rival leader as 'arrogant prick,' later apologises&nbsp;</a>

Following a heated exchange between the pair at a Parliamentary session on Tuesday, Prime Minister Ardern muttered "he's such an arrogant prick" about Seymour, who is a leader of the ACT party. The microphone picked up Arden's comment as she retook her seat.&nbsp;

Seymour petitioned the parliamentary speaker for an apology from the Prime Minister, which meant that her comment was entered into Hansard- the official record.&nbsp;

Later, Jacinda Ardern texted an apology to Seymour and the opposition leader came up with the idea of joining forces to raise money for the prostate cancer charity.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Ardern said she had signed the official transcript with &nbsp;Seymour "in the spirit of good sportsmanship and a good cause."

And on Friday, Seymour told AFP "We are thrilled it's got such good support. I suggested we sign a copy of the Hansard and auction it off to raise money for the foundation and pricks everywhere."

Seymour also said he hoped the signed document would go for a lot of money.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is auctioning off a transcript of a parliamentary exchange where she called her political opponent David Seymour an ''arrogant prick''.

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is auctioning off a transcript of a parliamentary exchange where she called her political opponent David Seymour an ''arrogant prick''. The auction is being done to raise money for a prostate cancer charity. A report by news agency AFP on Friday said that bidding for the framed copy of the document, signed by Ardern and Seymour, reached NZ $45,500 (US$29,000) in an online auction. The bidding is due to close on December 22. ALSO READ | New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern caught on hot mic calling rival leader as 'arrogant prick,' later apologises Following a heated exchange between the pair at a Parliamentary session on Tuesday, Prime Minister Ardern muttered "he's such an arrogant prick" about Seymour, who is a leader of the ACT party. The microphone picked up Arden's comment as she retook her seat. Seymour petitioned the parliamentary speaker for an apology from the Prime Minister, which meant that her comment was entered into Hansard- the official record. Later, Jacinda Ardern texted an apology to Seymour and the opposition leader came up with the idea of joining forces to raise money for the prostate cancer charity. On Thursday, Ardern said she had signed the official transcript with Seymour "in the spirit of good sportsmanship and a good cause." And on Friday, Seymour told AFP "We are thrilled it's got such good support. I suggested we sign a copy of the Hansard and auction it off to raise money for the foundation and pricks everywhere." Seymour also said he hoped the signed document would go for a lot of money. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

New Zealand PM Ardern auctions transcript of parliamentary jibe for prostate cancer charity

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern became the recent victim of a hot mic for calling an opposition party leader an "arrogant prick."&nbsp;

The clip was then aired on parliament's television.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jacinda-ardern-asked-if-she-met-finland-pm-because-of-similar-age-gender-538838">Also read |&nbsp;Jacinda Ardern snaps at scribe for asking if she met Finland PM because of similar age, gender</a>

In a parliamentary debate, David Seymour, leader of the ACT party asked Arden to point out an example of her mistake and apologise for her mistake, AFP reported.&nbsp;

Replying to this Ardern said that the management of COVID-19 was controversial in the country but added that she stood by her work.&nbsp;

After replying, she sat down and was heard saying "such an arrogant prick."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italian-aircraft-comes-to-jacinda-arderns-rescue-after-her-plane-breaks-down-in-antarctica-530133">Also read |&nbsp;Italian aircraft comes to Jacinda Ardern's rescue after her plane breaks down in Antarctica</a>

Seymour objected to the remark and petitioned the House of Representatives to take it back. Later, Ardern's office in a statement said that she apologised.&nbsp;

Several world leaders have been caught via hot mic while making off-colour remarks.

US President Joe Biden and South Korea's President Yoon Suk-yeol were captured swearing on the live mic.&nbsp;

During a press conference, Biden thought his mic has malfunctioned and when a Fox News reporter asked Biden a question, he was heard saying "what a stupid son of a b****."

(With inputs from agencies)

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New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern became the recent victim of a hot mic for calling an opposition party leader an "arrogant prick." The clip was then aired on parliament's television.

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern became the recent victim of a hot mic for calling an opposition party leader an "arrogant prick." The clip was then aired on parliament's television. Also read | Jacinda Ardern snaps at scribe for asking if she met Finland PM because of similar age, gender In a parliamentary debate, David Seymour, leader of the ACT party asked Arden to point out an example of her mistake and apologise for her mistake, AFP reported. Replying to this Ardern said that the management of COVID-19 was controversial in the country but added that she stood by her work. After replying, she sat down and was heard saying "such an arrogant prick." Also read | Italian aircraft comes to Jacinda Ardern's rescue after her plane breaks down in Antarctica Seymour objected to the remark and petitioned the House of Representatives to take it back. Later, Ardern's office in a statement said that she apologised. Several world leaders have been caught via hot mic while making off-colour remarks. US President Joe Biden and South Korea's President Yoon Suk-yeol were captured swearing on the live mic. During a press conference, Biden thought his mic has malfunctioned and when a Fox News reporter asked Biden a question, he was heard saying "what a stupid son of a b****." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern caught on hot mic calling rival leader as 'arrogant prick,' later apologises 

A woman was arrested in Auckland for her alleged involvement in the attack on New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s electorate office early on Thursday.

According to local media reports, a 57-year-old lady was arrested from her house in Coatesville and was subsequently taken into custody.

Police said that the front door of the PM’s office was smashed and a large knife resembling a samurai sword was found lying nearby.

Local media outlet Stuff, citing a neighbour, reported that the person smashed the front doors with an implement, and then threw something through a hole in the door, which caused smoke to come out of the building shortly after.

Later, a person sent an email to Stuff around 9 am, claiming responsibility for the incident.

“At 8.20 this morning I smashed a hole in her electoral office door and dropped the bomb in [sic],” the email said.

No injuries have been reported as the building was vacant at the time, as Arden is away visiting Antarctica for the 65th anniversary of Scott Base, New Zealand’s permanent presence and research facility on the ice continent.

In a statement, police said they are “making inquiries into a report of wilful damage at an address on Great North Road”.

“The incident was reported at about 8.20 am, where an object was thrown through a window,” a police statement read.

“A scene examination will be conducted and inquiries remain ongoing.”

A spokeswoman for the Prime Minister’s office said that she was aware of the incident and added that they are trying to find out more information.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A woman was arrested in Auckland for her alleged involvement in the attack on New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s electorate office early on Thursday. According to local media reports, a 57-year-old lady was arrested from her house in Coatesville and was subsequently taken into custody.

A woman was arrested in Auckland for her alleged involvement in the attack on New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s electorate office early on Thursday. According to local media reports, a 57-year-old lady was arrested from her house in Coatesville and was subsequently taken into custody. Police said that the front door of the PM’s office was smashed and a large knife resembling a samurai sword was found lying nearby. Local media outlet Stuff, citing a neighbour, reported that the person smashed the front doors with an implement, and then threw something through a hole in the door, which caused smoke to come out of the building shortly after. Later, a person sent an email to Stuff around 9 am, claiming responsibility for the incident. “At 8.20 this morning I smashed a hole in her electoral office door and dropped the bomb in [sic],” the email said. No injuries have been reported as the building was vacant at the time, as Arden is away visiting Antarctica for the 65th anniversary of Scott Base, New Zealand’s permanent presence and research facility on the ice continent. In a statement, police said they are “making inquiries into a report of wilful damage at an address on Great North Road”. “The incident was reported at about 8.20 am, where an object was thrown through a window,” a police statement read. “A scene examination will be conducted and inquiries remain ongoing.” A spokeswoman for the Prime Minister’s office said that she was aware of the incident and added that they are trying to find out more information. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

57-year-old woman arrested after New Zealand PM Arden’s office attacked

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern met with researchers at New Zealand's Scott Base in Antarctica. Her visit was part of a trip to emphasise the problems with climate change, her nation's commitment to the continent, and the necessity of regional cooperation.

Ardern, who began her 72-hour journey on Wednesday, said in a recording that was sent overnight that New Zealand's presence in Antarctica was at a "critical juncture" since the facility is nearing the end of its existence.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/57-year-old-woman-arrested-after-new-zealand-pm-ardens-office-attacked-528700">&nbsp;57-year-old woman arrested after New Zealand PM Arden’s office attacked</a>

"The role that we play, and our scientists play here, is incredibly important for our present and our future," she said during a visit marking Scott Base's 65th anniversary.

To support its presence there for the next 50 years, New Zealand stated last year that it would be providing NZ$344 million ($200.72 million) for a refurbishment of the base.

"(Antarctica's) becoming an increasingly contested region where we must maintain and protect the integrity of this fragile part of the world," Ardern said in a statement announcing her trip.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emperor-penguins-declared-threatened-species-by-us-due-to-existential-risk-528494">Emperor penguins declared threatened species by US due to existential risk</a>

About 15% of the continent, or the Ross Dependency, is subject to New Zealand's claim.

"Cooperation in Antarctica and in the Antarctic Treaty System is more important than ever as we tackle the crises of climate change and biodiversity loss," Ardern added.

Both China and Russia have made investments in recent years to increase their presence and capabilities in Antarctica, and Western nations have reacted similarly.

Australia, which has the largest claim to Antarctica, revealed plans to spend slightly over A$804 million ($522.04 million) to boost its interests there by purchasing drones and helicopters and establishing mobile stations earlier this year.

"What (Ardern's) doing is flagging, literally and metaphorically, New Zealand's ongoing commitment to its territorial claim in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/4-women-beat-6000-applicants-for-the-job-to-run-worlds-most-remote-post-office-in-antarctica-522453">Antarctic</a>, its presence in the Antarctic, and its commitment to operating in the Antarctic," said Alan Hemmings, a Christchurch-based specialist on Antarctic governance at the University of Canterbury.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern met with researchers at New Zealand's Scott Base in Antarctica. Her visit was part of a trip to emphasise the problems with climate change, her nation's commitment to the continent, and the necessity of regional cooperation.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern met with researchers at New Zealand's Scott Base in Antarctica. Her visit was part of a trip to emphasise the problems with climate change, her nation's commitment to the continent, and the necessity of regional cooperation. Ardern, who began her 72-hour journey on Wednesday, said in a recording that was sent overnight that New Zealand's presence in Antarctica was at a "critical juncture" since the facility is nearing the end of its existence. Also read | 57-year-old woman arrested after New Zealand PM Arden’s office attacked "The role that we play, and our scientists play here, is incredibly important for our present and our future," she said during a visit marking Scott Base's 65th anniversary. To support its presence there for the next 50 years, New Zealand stated last year that it would be providing NZ$344 million ($200.72 million) for a refurbishment of the base. "(Antarctica's) becoming an increasingly contested region where we must maintain and protect the integrity of this fragile part of the world," Ardern said in a statement announcing her trip. Also read | Emperor penguins declared threatened species by US due to existential risk About 15% of the continent, or the Ross Dependency, is subject to New Zealand's claim. "Cooperation in Antarctica and in the Antarctic Treaty System is more important than ever as we tackle the crises of climate change and biodiversity loss," Ardern added. Both China and Russia have made investments in recent years to increase their presence and capabilities in Antarctica, and Western nations have reacted similarly. Australia, which has the largest claim to Antarctica, revealed plans to spend slightly over A$804 million ($522.04 million) to boost its interests there by purchasing drones and helicopters and establishing mobile stations earlier this year. "What (Ardern's) doing is flagging, literally and metaphorically, New Zealand's ongoing commitment to its territorial claim in the Antarctic, its presence in the Antarctic, and its commitment to operating in the Antarctic," said Alan Hemmings, a Christchurch-based specialist on Antarctic governance at the University of Canterbury. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

New Zealand's PM Jacinda Ardern visits Antarctica to highlight climate change

In Pics | Anti-vax protesters in New Zealand clash with police outside the parliament

New&nbsp;Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;sought to cool simmering resentment&nbsp;over&nbsp;the slow unlocking of the country's&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;restrictions on Thursday, a day after police cleared a weeks-long Canada-style protest outside parliament.

Police in riot gear battled protesters late into the night on Wednesday, finally bringing an end to the occupation which, despite acts of violence and extremist elements, helped rally some support for its calls to end&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;restrictions.

In a special session of parliament to discuss the protest, the most violent in decades in the normally peaceful city,&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;promised things would change, but gave no timeframe for easing&nbsp;curbs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anxiety-and-depression-cases-surged-by-over-25-due-to-covid-who-458266">Anxiety and depression cases surged by over 25% due to Covid: WHO</a>

"Our people are coming home. Soon, tourists will return. Vaccine passes, mandates, restrictions – they will all change. There is reason to feel hopeful," she said.

A one-time poster child for tackling the coronavirus,&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealand's&nbsp;swift response to the&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;and its geographic isolation kept the country largely COVID-19 free until the end of last year, winning&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;strong support. Total deaths stand at just 56.

However, anger&nbsp;over&nbsp;vaccine mandates for people working in sectors such as health and education and strict border closures have put pressure on the government to now soften its stance in line with much of the rest of the world.

"Ardern&nbsp;has to weave a path between acknowledging some of the government's mistakes without appearing like the protesters had a point," said Andrew Hughes from the Research School of Management at Australian National University.

"She can't be seen condoning their behaviour but she also can't be seen as tone deaf."

A Horizon Research snap poll released on Feb. 18 found 30 per cent of those polled supported the protests and about the same percentage was opposed to&nbsp;Ardern's vaccine mandate policy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-exit-zero-covid-strategy-top-scientist-says-it-cannot-remain-unchanged-forever-457858" hreflang="en">China to exit zero-Covid strategy? Top scientist says it cannot 'remain unchanged forever'</a>

Some local businesses helped fund the encampment and well-known figures such as Olympic yachtsman Russell Coutts, Winston Peters, a former deputy prime minister under&nbsp;Ardern, and former prime minister Jim Bolger urged dialogue.

"I'm not anti-vaccine (I'm vaccinated) but I'm definitely against forced vaccinations," Coutts said in a Facebook post two weeks ago.

Ardern&nbsp;refused to meet the protesters, who she said had resorted to violence and bullying.

Omicron shift

The country of 5 million has a high COVID vaccination rate, with more than 95 per cent of the eligible population double vaccinated. More than 70 per cent of people have had a booster dose.

COVID-19 cases were restricted to fewer than 15,000 in total by end-2021 through a strict elimination approach, but the arrival of the Omicron variant has seen cases top 20,000 a day, reaching a cumulative total of nearly 150,000 on Thursday.

The government says restrictions that have frayed the public's patience are set to stay in place until at least mid-March when the Omicron surge is expected to peak.

The saga has dented&nbsp;Ardern's popularity since she won a second term in a landslide election victory in 2020.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-records-50000-covid-cases-as-first-bundle-of-goods-arrive-from-china-458203">Hong Kong records 50,000 Covid cases as first bundle of goods arrive from China</a>

Her support fell to 35 per cent, its lowest level since she became prime minister in 2017, according to a 1News Kantar Public poll at the end of January. However,&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;remains the preferred prime minister and her centre-left coalition government is still on course to win the next election in late 2023.

The government has made some changes to its tough stand on borders that prevented many Kiwis from returning home due to a compulsory stay in limited quarantine facilities.

But the border remains closed to foreigners, unlike in neighbouring Australia which relaxed&nbsp;curbs&nbsp;this month.

Ardern&nbsp;said last week that her cabinet may bring forward the entry of foreign tourists from the current proposed date of October but again gave no timeframe.

Watch |&nbsp;The five stages of the covid Pandemic, as told by Dr Anthony Fauci

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-five-stages-of-the-covid-pandemic-as-told-by-dr-anthony-fauci-454715/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Unquestionably&nbsp;Ardern's elimination strategy was a massive success and saved lots of lives," said Martin&nbsp;Newell, a spokesman for Grounded Kiwis, representing&nbsp;overseas&nbsp;New&nbsp;Zealanders.

"But with Omicron the government just seems to have been mentally unprepared for a shift in its approach."

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern sought to cool simmering resentment over the slow unlocking of the country's pandemic restrictions on Thursday, a day after police cleared a weeks-long Canada-style protest outside parliament.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern sought to cool simmering resentment over the slow unlocking of the country's pandemic restrictions on Thursday, a day after police cleared a weeks-long Canada-style protest outside parliament. Police in riot gear battled protesters late into the night on Wednesday, finally bringing an end to the occupation which, despite acts of violence and extremist elements, helped rally some support for its calls to end pandemic restrictions. In a special session of parliament to discuss the protest, the most violent in decades in the normally peaceful city, Ardern promised things would change, but gave no timeframe for easing curbs. Also read | Anxiety and depression cases surged by over 25% due to Covid: WHO "Our people are coming home. Soon, tourists will return. Vaccine passes, mandates, restrictions – they will all change. There is reason to feel hopeful," she said. A one-time poster child for tackling the coronavirus, New Zealand's swift response to the pandemic and its geographic isolation kept the country largely COVID-19 free until the end of last year, winning Ardern strong support. Total deaths stand at just 56. However, anger over vaccine mandates for people working in sectors such as health and education and strict border closures have put pressure on the government to now soften its stance in line with much of the rest of the world. "Ardern has to weave a path between acknowledging some of the government's mistakes without appearing like the protesters had a point," said Andrew Hughes from the Research School of Management at Australian National University. "She can't be seen condoning their behaviour but she also can't be seen as tone deaf." A Horizon Research snap poll released on Feb. 18 found 30 per cent of those polled supported the protests and about the same percentage was opposed to Ardern's vaccine mandate policy. Also read | China to exit zero-Covid strategy? Top scientist says it cannot 'remain unchanged forever' Some local businesses helped fund the encampment and well-known figures such as Olympic yachtsman Russell Coutts, Winston Peters, a former deputy prime minister under Ardern, and former prime minister Jim Bolger urged dialogue. "I'm not anti-vaccine (I'm vaccinated) but I'm definitely against forced vaccinations," Coutts said in a Facebook post two weeks ago. Ardern refused to meet the protesters, who she said had resorted to violence and bullying. Omicron shift The country of 5 million has a high COVID vaccination rate, with more than 95 per cent of the eligible population double vaccinated. More than 70 per cent of people have had a booster dose. COVID-19 cases were restricted to fewer than 15,000 in total by end-2021 through a strict elimination approach, but the arrival of the Omicron variant has seen cases top 20,000 a day, reaching a cumulative total of nearly 150,000 on Thursday. The government says restrictions that have frayed the public's patience are set to stay in place until at least mid-March when the Omicron surge is expected to peak. The saga has dented Ardern's popularity since she won a second term in a landslide election victory in 2020. Also read | Hong Kong records 50,000 Covid cases as first bundle of goods arrive from China Her support fell to 35 per cent, its lowest level since she became prime minister in 2017, according to a 1News Kantar Public poll at the end of January. However, Ardern remains the preferred prime minister and her centre-left coalition government is still on course to win the next election in late 2023. The government has made some changes to its tough stand on borders that prevented many Kiwis from returning home due to a compulsory stay in limited quarantine facilities. But the border remains closed to foreigners, unlike in neighbouring Australia which relaxed curbs this month. Ardern said last week that her cabinet may bring forward the entry of foreign tourists from the current proposed date of October but again gave no timeframe. Watch | The five stages of the covid Pandemic, as told by Dr Anthony Fauci "Unquestionably Ardern's elimination strategy was a massive success and saved lots of lives," said Martin Newell, a spokesman for Grounded Kiwis, representing overseas New Zealanders. "But with Omicron the government just seems to have been mentally unprepared for a shift in its approach."

New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern faces resentment over slow unlocking of pandemic restrictions

New&nbsp;Zealand will lift COVID-19 vaccine&nbsp;mandates&nbsp;and social distancing measures&nbsp;after&nbsp;the&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;peak has passed, Prime Minister Jacinda&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;said on Monday, as protesters occupying the parliament grounds again clashed with police.

Inspired by truckers' demonstrations in Canada, thousands of protesters have blocked streets near the parliament in the capital Wellington for two weeks with trucks, cars and motorcycles, piling pressure on the government to scrap vaccine&nbsp;mandates.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/remote-but-connected-new-zealands-jacinda-ardern-talks-about-covid-climate-change-and-peace-at-unga-415736">'Remote, but connected': New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern talks about Covid, climate change and peace at UNGA</a>

Ardern&nbsp;refused to set a hard date, but said there would be a narrowing of vaccine requirements after Omicron reaches a peak, which is expected in mid to late March.

"We all want to go back to the way life was. And we will, I suspect sooner than you think,"&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;said at a weekly&nbsp;news conference.

"But when that happens, it will be because easing restrictions won't compromise the lives of thousands of people – not because you demanded it," she said, addressing protestors.

The demonstrations began as a stand against the vaccine&nbsp;mandates&nbsp;but have since spread to become a wider movement against&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;and her government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-covid-pill-from-merck-showed-more-promise-in-reducing-the-risk-of-hospitalisation-454773">A Covid pill from Merck showed more promise in reducing the risk of hospitalisation</a>

On Monday, eight people were arrested for disorderly behaviour and obstruction, with human waste thrown over some police officers.

New&nbsp;Zealand has reported about 16,000 cases of COVID-19 and 53 deaths since the pandemic began, relatively low by global standards, but an&nbsp;Omicron-fuelled outbreak has pushed the current seven-day average of&nbsp;new&nbsp;infections to more than 1,600 cases daily.

About 94% of eligible people are vaccinated, with shots mandatory for some staff in front-line jobs.

The parliament stand off is testing&nbsp;Ardern, who garnered plaudits for keeping the country virtually virus-free over the last two years but is facing criticism for continuing strict restrictions and delaying order reopening plans.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-justin-trudeaus-government-fires-a-woman-for-donating-100-to-protesters-454906">Canada: Justin Trudeau's government fires a woman for donating $100 to protesters</a>

"What we are seeing outside parliament, and the reaction to it, is the culmination of underlying issues that have been rumbling along in our communities for some time," main opposition National Party leader Christopher Luxon said on Monday, calling for vaccine&nbsp;mandates&nbsp;to be phased out and borders reopened.

"It's driven by Covid and vaccine&nbsp;mandates, yes, but the frustrations shared by many Kiwis are also driven by a Government that seems to be stalling," he said.

New Zealand will lift COVID-19 vaccine mandates and social distancing measures after the Omicron peak has passed, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday, as protesters occupying the parliament grounds again clashed with police.

New Zealand will lift COVID-19 vaccine mandates and social distancing measures after the Omicron peak has passed, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday, as protesters occupying the parliament grounds again clashed with police. Inspired by truckers' demonstrations in Canada, thousands of protesters have blocked streets near the parliament in the capital Wellington for two weeks with trucks, cars and motorcycles, piling pressure on the government to scrap vaccine mandates. Also read | 'Remote, but connected': New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern talks about Covid, climate change and peace at UNGA Ardern refused to set a hard date, but said there would be a narrowing of vaccine requirements after Omicron reaches a peak, which is expected in mid to late March. "We all want to go back to the way life was. And we will, I suspect sooner than you think," Ardern said at a weekly news conference. "But when that happens, it will be because easing restrictions won't compromise the lives of thousands of people – not because you demanded it," she said, addressing protestors. The demonstrations began as a stand against the vaccine mandates but have since spread to become a wider movement against Ardern and her government. Also read | A Covid pill from Merck showed more promise in reducing the risk of hospitalisation On Monday, eight people were arrested for disorderly behaviour and obstruction, with human waste thrown over some police officers. New Zealand has reported about 16,000 cases of COVID-19 and 53 deaths since the pandemic began, relatively low by global standards, but an Omicron-fuelled outbreak has pushed the current seven-day average of new infections to more than 1,600 cases daily. About 94% of eligible people are vaccinated, with shots mandatory for some staff in front-line jobs. The parliament stand off is testing Ardern, who garnered plaudits for keeping the country virtually virus-free over the last two years but is facing criticism for continuing strict restrictions and delaying order reopening plans. Also read | Canada: Justin Trudeau's government fires a woman for donating $100 to protesters "What we are seeing outside parliament, and the reaction to it, is the culmination of underlying issues that have been rumbling along in our communities for some time," main opposition National Party leader Christopher Luxon said on Monday, calling for vaccine mandates to be phased out and borders reopened. "It's driven by Covid and vaccine mandates, yes, but the frustrations shared by many Kiwis are also driven by a Government that seems to be stalling," he said.

COVID-19: New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern signals mandates will ease after Omicron peaks

Taking a cue from the Canadian protesters, a convoy of trucks blocked streets near New Zealand's parliament in Wellington on Tuesday to protest against Covid restrictions and vaccinations.

Raising banners with messages such as “give us back our freedom” and “coercion is not consent”, hundreds of vehicles were parked in the streets surrounding the parliament building.

According to reports, there were no arrests or major incidents as the demonstration remained peaceful.&nbsp;

However, it is unclear as to how long the protesters intend to remain parked in the city.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who was delivering a speech to lawmakers outlining her priorities for the year, chose not to meet with the protesters saying that the majority of the New Zealanders support the Covid regulations.

"Ninety-six per cent of New Zealanders have gone out and got a vaccination, which has enabled us to live now with fewer restrictions because of the extra protection that has provided," she told Radio New Zealand.

The government has made Covid vaccinations mandatory for people working in the health sector, law enforcement, education and defence.

As around 77 per cent of New Zealanders were fully vaccinated, Ardern promised that she won’t impose more lockdowns.

For more than a week, a “Freedom Convoy” of truckers has chocked the Canadian capital Ottawa, prompting the city authorities to declare a state of emergency.

After attacking the demonstrators last week, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been silent and remains at an undisclosed location in the National Capital Region, for reasons of security. Trudeau is also in self-isolation as he tested positive for Covid-19 on January 30.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taking a cue from the Canadian protesters, a convoy of trucks blocked streets near New Zealand's parliament in Wellington on Tuesday to protest against Covid restrictions and vaccinations.

Taking a cue from the Canadian protesters, a convoy of trucks blocked streets near New Zealand's parliament in Wellington on Tuesday to protest against Covid restrictions and vaccinations. Raising banners with messages such as “give us back our freedom” and “coercion is not consent”, hundreds of vehicles were parked in the streets surrounding the parliament building. According to reports, there were no arrests or major incidents as the demonstration remained peaceful. However, it is unclear as to how long the protesters intend to remain parked in the city. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who was delivering a speech to lawmakers outlining her priorities for the year, chose not to meet with the protesters saying that the majority of the New Zealanders support the Covid regulations. "Ninety-six per cent of New Zealanders have gone out and got a vaccination, which has enabled us to live now with fewer restrictions because of the extra protection that has provided," she told Radio New Zealand. The government has made Covid vaccinations mandatory for people working in the health sector, law enforcement, education and defence. As around 77 per cent of New Zealanders were fully vaccinated, Ardern promised that she won’t impose more lockdowns. For more than a week, a “Freedom Convoy” of truckers has chocked the Canadian capital Ottawa, prompting the city authorities to declare a state of emergency. After attacking the demonstrators last week, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been silent and remains at an undisclosed location in the National Capital Region, for reasons of security. Trudeau is also in self-isolation as he tested positive for Covid-19 on January 30. (With inputs from agencies)

After Canada, New Zealand truckers protest against Covid vaccine mandates, block parliament

Jacinda Adern-led government in New Zealand is facing heat for resettling Afghanistan’s former vice president and his 13 family members in the country while hundreds of Afghans who helped New Zealand forces remain trapped abroad and in fear for their lives.

According to NZ-based news website Stuff, Sarwar Danish– the second vice president of Afghanistan– flew into Auckland around Christmas with his wife, two sons and three daughters.

Associate immigration minister Phil Twyford confirmed that “Sarwar Danish and his family have been given safe haven in New Zealand”.

Danish, a member of Afghanistan’s ethnic Hazara minority, fled Kabul for Turkey along with other senior officials on August 16, shortly after the Taliban took control of the capital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-ex-president-ashraf-ghani-is-in-uae-406635">Afghan ex-president Ashraf Ghani is in UAE</a>

New Zealand has granted 1,400 visas to Afghans after the Taliban took over Afghanistan in mid-August, the Guardian reported.

Out of those, only 800 were resettled in New Zealand, in part because New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) evacuation efforts from Kabul were halted after a suicide bomber attacked the Kabul airport in late August.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/i-have-been-made-a-scapegoat-ashraf-ghani-recalls-the-day-he-fled-afghanistan-denies-taking-money-441143">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/i-have-been-made-a-scapegoat-ashraf-ghani-recalls-the-day-he-fled-afghanistan-denies-taking-money-441143">'I have been made a scapegoat': Ashraf Ghani recalls the day he fled Afghanistan, denies taking money</a>

An Afghan member who was associated with the NZDF in Kabul from 2009-2012 told Stuff that the government should have prioritized those Afghans who worked the forces and “not people like Danish who shared responsibility for the collapse of Afghanistan’s government”.

“It’s very frustrating that someone from the corrupt leadership of Afghanistan – with zero connection to New Zealand – has been resettled in this country, when people who directly supported the New Zealand SAS have been left behind,” he said.

“He was already safe in Turkey, so it would be hard to understand if Kiwi taxpayers are paying for Danish and his family to start a new life in New Zealand,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Jacinda Adern-led government in New Zealand is facing heat for resettling Afghanistan’s former vice president and his 13 family members in the country while hundreds of Afghans who helped New Zealand forces remain trapped abroad and in fear for their lives.

Jacinda Adern-led government in New Zealand is facing heat for resettling Afghanistan’s former vice president and his 13 family members in the country while hundreds of Afghans who helped New Zealand forces remain trapped abroad and in fear for their lives. According to NZ-based news website Stuff, Sarwar Danish– the second vice president of Afghanistan– flew into Auckland around Christmas with his wife, two sons and three daughters. Associate immigration minister Phil Twyford confirmed that “Sarwar Danish and his family have been given safe haven in New Zealand”. Danish, a member of Afghanistan’s ethnic Hazara minority, fled Kabul for Turkey along with other senior officials on August 16, shortly after the Taliban took control of the capital. Also read | Afghan ex-president Ashraf Ghani is in UAE New Zealand has granted 1,400 visas to Afghans after the Taliban took over Afghanistan in mid-August, the Guardian reported. Out of those, only 800 were resettled in New Zealand, in part because New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) evacuation efforts from Kabul were halted after a suicide bomber attacked the Kabul airport in late August. Also read | 'I have been made a scapegoat': Ashraf Ghani recalls the day he fled Afghanistan, denies taking money An Afghan member who was associated with the NZDF in Kabul from 2009-2012 told Stuff that the government should have prioritized those Afghans who worked the forces and “not people like Danish who shared responsibility for the collapse of Afghanistan’s government”. “It’s very frustrating that someone from the corrupt leadership of Afghanistan – with zero connection to New Zealand – has been resettled in this country, when people who directly supported the New Zealand SAS have been left behind,” he said. “He was already safe in Turkey, so it would be hard to understand if Kiwi taxpayers are paying for Danish and his family to start a new life in New Zealand,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

NZ govt slammed for prioritising resettlement of Afghan ex-VP over others

When New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was busy addressing the people about the country’s Covid response through livestream from her home, the country’s premiere was being persistently heckled by someone— her three-year-old daughter, who had “escaped” and was up past her bedtime.

The prime minister was conducting a livestream about shifting public health restrictions when she was interrupted by a faint voice of her daughter Meve.

“Mummy”, her daughter called out when the Prime Minister was addressing the people.

“You’re meant to be in bed, darling,” the 41-year-old Kiwi leader responded.

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“No,” Neve responded undeterred, launching what ended up being protracted, and for Ardern, fruitless, negotiations.

“It’s bedtime, darling, pop back to bed. I'll come and see you in a second. I'll come and see you in a minute. Okay, sorry, everybody," Ardern says with a wry smile.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-couple-lead-a-luxurious-covid-19-quarantine-document-life-in-photos-294512">New Zealand couple lead a luxurious COVID-19 quarantine, document life in photos</a>

"Well, that was a bedtime fail, wasn't it? I thought here's a moment I'll do a Facebook Live, It will be nice and safe. Does anyone else have kids escape like three, four times after bedtime? Thankfully, my mum's here so she can help out."

"Okay, where were we?" Ardern tried to continue. The little voice returns: "What's taking so long?"

"I'm sorry, darling, it is taking so long. Okay. I'm sorry, everyone. I'm going to just go and put Neve back to bed. Because this is well past her bedtime. Thanks for joining me.”

The episode was reminiscent of a 2017 incident when Korea analyst Robert Kelly was being interrupted by his children during a BBC interview.

In 2018, Ardern became the second prime minister in the world — after Pakistan's Benazir Bhutto —to give birth while in office, later taking Neve onto the floor of the UN Assembly in New York.

(With inputs from agencies)

When New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was busy addressing the people about the country’s Covid response through livestream from her home, the country’s premiere was being persistently heckled by someone— her three-year-old daughter, who had “escaped” and was up past her bedtime.

When New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was busy addressing the people about the country’s Covid response through livestream from her home, the country’s premiere was being persistently heckled by someone— her three-year-old daughter, who had “escaped” and was up past her bedtime. The prime minister was conducting a livestream about shifting public health restrictions when she was interrupted by a faint voice of her daughter Meve. “Mummy”, her daughter called out when the Prime Minister was addressing the people. “You’re meant to be in bed, darling,” the 41-year-old Kiwi leader responded. × “No,” Neve responded undeterred, launching what ended up being protracted, and for Ardern, fruitless, negotiations. “It’s bedtime, darling, pop back to bed. I'll come and see you in a second. I'll come and see you in a minute. Okay, sorry, everybody," Ardern says with a wry smile. Also read | New Zealand couple lead a luxurious COVID-19 quarantine, document life in photos "Well, that was a bedtime fail, wasn't it? I thought here's a moment I'll do a Facebook Live, It will be nice and safe. Does anyone else have kids escape like three, four times after bedtime? Thankfully, my mum's here so she can help out." "Okay, where were we?" Ardern tried to continue. The little voice returns: "What's taking so long?" "I'm sorry, darling, it is taking so long. Okay. I'm sorry, everyone. I'm going to just go and put Neve back to bed. Because this is well past her bedtime. Thanks for joining me.” The episode was reminiscent of a 2017 incident when Korea analyst Robert Kelly was being interrupted by his children during a BBC interview. In 2018, Ardern became the second prime minister in the world — after Pakistan's Benazir Bhutto —to give birth while in office, later taking Neve onto the floor of the UN Assembly in New York. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch|  New Zealand PM Jacinda interrupted by daughter during livestream

Sri Lankan police on Saturday named Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen, a Tamil Muslim resident of Kathankudy town regarded as the hub of local Islamic radicalism in the Eastern province, as the man who injured seven people by carrying out a stabbing attack at a shopping mall in New Zealand.

Seven people were injured, three critically, after 32-year-old Samsudeen attacked shoppers at the Countdown supermarket in west Auckland's LynnMall on Friday.

The ISIS-inspired extremist was under surveillance by New Zealand police and was shot dead by officers about two minutes after the attack began.

The police said they have identified Samsudeen, a resident of Kathankudy from the eastern district of Batticaloa, as the mall attacker in Auckland. Kathankudy is regarded as the home of local Islamic radicalism. Sri Lanka's 2019 Easter Sunday attacks that killed over 270 people, including 11 Indians, were traced to have links to Kathankudy.

The Sri Lankan government then had speculated that the Easter attack might have been triggered in the response to the mosque attack carried out in Christchurch just two months earlier.

Samsudeen arrived in New Zealand in 2011 from Sri Lanka on a student visa.

A Tamil Muslim, he came seeking refugee status claiming he and his father had experienced serious problems with Sri Lankan authorities due to their political background. He claimed they had been attacked, kidnapped and tortured and said the pair were forced to go into hiding, reported New Zealand news website stuff.Co.Nz.

He was accepted, and his refugee status was granted on December 20, 2013, after a tribunal found he had a well-founded fear of facing harm if he returned to Sri Lanka. It also accepted he had been attacked, abducted, physically mistreated and humiliated in the past, it said.

New Zealand Police first started investigating him in March 2016 when he shared videos and pictures of graphic war-related violence, and comments advocating violent extremism. He also posted comments in support of terrorists involved in other attacks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jacinda-ardern-calls-new-zealand-stabbing-terrorist-attack-suspect-shot-dead-410375">Jacinda Ardern calls New Zealand stabbing 'terrorist attack'; suspect shot dead</a>

In 2017, he was arrested at Auckland Airport, where he was in possession of a one-way ticket for Singapore, after he told a person at an Auckland mosque he wanted to go to Syria "to fight for ISIS", the report said.

When his refugee status looked set to be revoked in 2018, Samsudeen protested that decision, saying: "I'm very afraid of returning to Sri Lanka because I'm afraid of the authorities there, and the same risks and fears [that] I had when I left my country are still there in Sri Lanka. Also, young Tamil men face serious problems in Sri Lanka.

"We face arrest, detention, mistreatment and torture as we're always under suspicions by the authorities because of the [Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam],"&nbsp;he had said.

Meanwhile, the Muslim minority civil society in Sri Lanka condemned the stabbing attack in Auckland.

"On behalf of all Sri Lankans, and Sri Lankan Muslim community in particular, we unequivocally condemn this senseless and terrible act of violence,"&nbsp;the Sri Lanka Muslim Council said in a statement.

The Council members said they concur with the statement of New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden stating that hate crimes and acts of violent extremism are not, and must not be, associated with any nationality, ethnicity, culture.

"We express our solidarity with the people of New Zealand at this moment of grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families,"&nbsp;it said.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan police on Saturday named Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen, a Tamil Muslim resident of Kathankudy town regarded as the hub of local Islamic radicalism in the Eastern province, as the man who injured seven people by carrying out a stabbing attack at a shopping mall in New Zealand.

Sri Lankan police on Saturday named Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen, a Tamil Muslim resident of Kathankudy town regarded as the hub of local Islamic radicalism in the Eastern province, as the man who injured seven people by carrying out a stabbing attack at a shopping mall in New Zealand. Seven people were injured, three critically, after 32-year-old Samsudeen attacked shoppers at the Countdown supermarket in west Auckland's LynnMall on Friday. The ISIS-inspired extremist was under surveillance by New Zealand police and was shot dead by officers about two minutes after the attack began. The police said they have identified Samsudeen, a resident of Kathankudy from the eastern district of Batticaloa, as the mall attacker in Auckland. Kathankudy is regarded as the home of local Islamic radicalism. Sri Lanka's 2019 Easter Sunday attacks that killed over 270 people, including 11 Indians, were traced to have links to Kathankudy. The Sri Lankan government then had speculated that the Easter attack might have been triggered in the response to the mosque attack carried out in Christchurch just two months earlier. Samsudeen arrived in New Zealand in 2011 from Sri Lanka on a student visa. A Tamil Muslim, he came seeking refugee status claiming he and his father had experienced serious problems with Sri Lankan authorities due to their political background. He claimed they had been attacked, kidnapped and tortured and said the pair were forced to go into hiding, reported New Zealand news website stuff.Co.Nz. He was accepted, and his refugee status was granted on December 20, 2013, after a tribunal found he had a well-founded fear of facing harm if he returned to Sri Lanka. It also accepted he had been attacked, abducted, physically mistreated and humiliated in the past, it said. New Zealand Police first started investigating him in March 2016 when he shared videos and pictures of graphic war-related violence, and comments advocating violent extremism. He also posted comments in support of terrorists involved in other attacks. Also read | Jacinda Ardern calls New Zealand stabbing 'terrorist attack'; suspect shot dead In 2017, he was arrested at Auckland Airport, where he was in possession of a one-way ticket for Singapore, after he told a person at an Auckland mosque he wanted to go to Syria "to fight for ISIS", the report said. When his refugee status looked set to be revoked in 2018, Samsudeen protested that decision, saying: "I'm very afraid of returning to Sri Lanka because I'm afraid of the authorities there, and the same risks and fears [that] I had when I left my country are still there in Sri Lanka. Also, young Tamil men face serious problems in Sri Lanka. "We face arrest, detention, mistreatment and torture as we're always under suspicions by the authorities because of the [Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam]," he had said. Meanwhile, the Muslim minority civil society in Sri Lanka condemned the stabbing attack in Auckland. "On behalf of all Sri Lankans, and Sri Lankan Muslim community in particular, we unequivocally condemn this senseless and terrible act of violence," the Sri Lanka Muslim Council said in a statement. The Council members said they concur with the statement of New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden stating that hate crimes and acts of violent extremism are not, and must not be, associated with any nationality, ethnicity, culture. "We express our solidarity with the people of New Zealand at this moment of grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families," it said.

Sri Lankan Tamil Muslim behind New Zealand shopping mall attack: Police

The Islamic State-inspired radical who was shot dead by police after he attacked people with a knife in an Auckland supermarket has been identified as 32-year-old Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen.

Seven people were stabbed and wounded at the supermarket in New Zealand on Saturday. Three of the victims remained hospitalized in critical condition and three more were in stable or moderate conditions. The seventh person was recovering at home.

The youngest victim was a 29-year-old woman, the oldest a 77-year-old man.

According to local media reports, the 32-year-old attacker was a Sri Lankan national who had been convicted and imprisoned for about three years before being released in July.

The attacker’s identity was revealed a day after the court gave permission to the New Zealand government to disclose the man’s name—which was otherwise prohibited under the suppression order.

Samsudeen was granted name suppression by a high court in July 2018.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jacinda-ardern-calls-new-zealand-stabbing-terrorist-attack-suspect-shot-dead-410375">Jacinda Ardern calls New Zealand stabbing 'terrorist attack'; suspect shot dead</a>

At that stage, his refugee status was uncertain and the suppression order was to remain in place until that was determined

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern had earlier said the attacker surveillance since 2016 because of his support to the Islamic State ideology.

She said the man by law could not be kept in prison, so he was being constantly monitored instead.

The attacker&nbsp;spent three years in prison after being charged multiple times for possessing hunting knives and objectionable publications, Ardern said.

According to reports, Samsudeen, a Tamil Muslim, came to New Zealand on a student visa. He first came to the attention of police in 2016, after posting comments advocating violent extremism on social media.

He was initially arrested at Auckland airport in 2017, believed to be on his way to Syria. Police also found "restricted publications" and a hunting knife in his apartment. He was charged with possessing the items, pleaded guilty and was released on bail.

Ardern said she had received briefings about the threat the man posed in July and&nbsp;in August.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Islamic State-inspired radical who was shot dead by police after he attacked people with a knife in an Auckland supermarket has been identified as 32-year-old Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen.

The Islamic State-inspired radical who was shot dead by police after he attacked people with a knife in an Auckland supermarket has been identified as 32-year-old Ahamed Aathil Mohamed Samsudeen. Seven people were stabbed and wounded at the supermarket in New Zealand on Saturday. Three of the victims remained hospitalized in critical condition and three more were in stable or moderate conditions. The seventh person was recovering at home. The youngest victim was a 29-year-old woman, the oldest a 77-year-old man. According to local media reports, the 32-year-old attacker was a Sri Lankan national who had been convicted and imprisoned for about three years before being released in July. The attacker’s identity was revealed a day after the court gave permission to the New Zealand government to disclose the man’s name—which was otherwise prohibited under the suppression order. Samsudeen was granted name suppression by a high court in July 2018. Also read | Jacinda Ardern calls New Zealand stabbing 'terrorist attack'; suspect shot dead At that stage, his refugee status was uncertain and the suppression order was to remain in place until that was determined New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern had earlier said the attacker surveillance since 2016 because of his support to the Islamic State ideology. She said the man by law could not be kept in prison, so he was being constantly monitored instead. The attacker spent three years in prison after being charged multiple times for possessing hunting knives and objectionable publications, Ardern said. According to reports, Samsudeen, a Tamil Muslim, came to New Zealand on a student visa. He first came to the attention of police in 2016, after posting comments advocating violent extremism on social media. He was initially arrested at Auckland airport in 2017, believed to be on his way to Syria. Police also found "restricted publications" and a hunting knife in his apartment. He was charged with possessing the items, pleaded guilty and was released on bail. Ardern said she had received briefings about the threat the man posed in July and in August. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand officials reveal radical’s name responsible for Auckland knife attack

As the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson asked people to "live with" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>, his New Zealand counterpart, Jacinda Ardern, has dismissed any plans of following this plan.

After Johnson’s announcement, Jacinda Ardern said New Zealand has no plans of adopting the same plan as the UK and it would be completely "unacceptable".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/customers-tired-of-hearing-due-to-covid-as-an-excuse-study-396536" hreflang="en">Customers tired of hearing 'due to Covid' as an excuse: Study</a>

The government also added that the UK would be added to the ‘no-fly’ list if cases increased after all Covid restrictions are lifted in the European country.

"If they do get an increase in cases, we will be keeping a close eye on what that means for the risk of people travelling from the UK and that will inform our decisions here," Director-general of health, Ashley Bloomfield said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pandemic-is-far-from-over-pm-johnson-unveils-plan-to-ease-virus-curbs-in-england-396057" hreflang="en">'Pandemic is far from over': PM Johnson unveils plan to ease virus curbs in England</a>

New Zealand's opposition towards UK's plan has come after Boris Johnson, on Monday, announced new plans to scrap rules of wearing face masks and maintaining social distancing from July 19. Johnson told citizens to "learn to live with" the coronavirus. "We must reconcile ourselves, sadly, to more deaths from Covid," Johnson said.

"That's not something that we have been willing to accept in New Zealand," COVID-19 response minister, Chris Hipkins, said at a press conference alongside Ardern. "One of the things the UK government have been very clear about [is] that there will be a spike in cases, potentially thousands of cases a day. There will be more people dying."

"We are likely to see more incremental change than dramatic change where we wake up one morning and say: 'We just go back to the way things were before COVID-19," he added.

In the same conference, Ardern was asked if, like Johnson, she would also request locals to accept Covid deaths. "Different countries are taking different choices," she said in response. "The priority for me is how do we continue to preserve what New Zealand has managed to gain and give ourselves options, because this virus is not done with the world yet."

As the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson asked people to "live with" coronavirus, his New Zealand counterpart, Jacinda Ardern, has dismissed any plans of following this plan.

As the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson asked people to "live with" coronavirus, his New Zealand counterpart, Jacinda Ardern, has dismissed any plans of following this plan. After Johnson’s announcement, Jacinda Ardern said New Zealand has no plans of adopting the same plan as the UK and it would be completely "unacceptable". Also read | Customers tired of hearing 'due to Covid' as an excuse: Study The government also added that the UK would be added to the ‘no-fly’ list if cases increased after all Covid restrictions are lifted in the European country. "If they do get an increase in cases, we will be keeping a close eye on what that means for the risk of people travelling from the UK and that will inform our decisions here," Director-general of health, Ashley Bloomfield said. Also read | 'Pandemic is far from over': PM Johnson unveils plan to ease virus curbs in England New Zealand's opposition towards UK's plan has come after Boris Johnson, on Monday, announced new plans to scrap rules of wearing face masks and maintaining social distancing from July 19. Johnson told citizens to "learn to live with" the coronavirus. "We must reconcile ourselves, sadly, to more deaths from Covid," Johnson said. "That's not something that we have been willing to accept in New Zealand," COVID-19 response minister, Chris Hipkins, said at a press conference alongside Ardern. "One of the things the UK government have been very clear about [is] that there will be a spike in cases, potentially thousands of cases a day. There will be more people dying." "We are likely to see more incremental change than dramatic change where we wake up one morning and say: 'We just go back to the way things were before COVID-19," he added. In the same conference, Ardern was asked if, like Johnson, she would also request locals to accept Covid deaths. "Different countries are taking different choices," she said in response. "The priority for me is how do we continue to preserve what New Zealand has managed to gain and give ourselves options, because this virus is not done with the world yet."

New Zealand will not follow UK's 'live with Covid' policy: Jacinda Ardern

First the houses and cars vanished. Fences, driveways and the other remaining markers of suburban life followed. Now, only stretches of green remain — an eerie memorial to two earthquakes that leveled Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city, 10 years ago.

The undulating expanse, which begins 2 miles from downtown Christchurch, was deemed uninhabitable after the quakes, the second of which killed 185 people on Feb. 22, 2011. The 8,000 properties it encompassed were bought by the government and razed, the remnants swept away.

The land now sits in limbo, a reflection of the difficult decisions Christchurch has faced about how, what and where to rebuild on disaster-prone terrain. In the central business district, cranes, diggers and drills are still a feature of nearly every street. But in the eastern suburbs, a swath nearly twice the size of Central Park in New York is steadily being reclaimed by nature.

Cul-de-sacs taper into swamp and sludge, evidence of why residents left, not all of them by choice. Lawns have the look of scruffy golf courses; grass is mowed and sprayed for weeds, but nothing is newly planted. Beyond slouching lamp posts and faded road stenciling, there is little sign of a human past.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ardern-leads-tributes-on-new-zealand-quake-anniversary-365369" hreflang="en">Ardern leads tributes on New Zealand quake anniversary</a>

Gone wild, parts of the area, which the government named the red zone, now attract foragers. On a recent late-summer Sunday afternoon, a group of families straggled across a field of wildflowers that was once a backyard, stopping to pick yarrow and camomile for tea.

A carpet of fruit on the ground below a towering pear tree was far more than they could carry off in their bags and baskets. Children crammed pears into their mouths, the next one already in hand.

“They’re sweet but they’re quite crunchy,” Baxter MacArthur, 10, called from his perch halfway up the tree.

The red zone is a sobering reminder that New Zealanders live in one of the most geologically active places on earth. The capital, Wellington, stands atop seismic fault lines, and the largest city, Auckland, is built on a ring of about 50 dormant volcanoes.

The first of the two earthquakes a decade ago, a magnitude 7.1 convulsion on Sept. 4, 2010, caused severe structural damage in Christchurch, a city of 380,000 that is the largest on New Zealand’s South Island. No one died as a direct result, though one person had a fatal heart attack.

That was followed five months later by a magnitude 6.2 quake that killed 173 people in the central city and 12 elsewhere, as facades and high-rise buildings crumbled. The city’s infrastructure — roads, bridges, water systems — was ravaged, and the central business district would remain closed for two years.

The mammoth task of reinventing itself has been fraught for Christchurch, which before the quakes was a fairly conservative city featuring traditional English architecture. The efforts have proceeded slowly, but a remade downtown, greener and more compact, is emerging.
<img alt="The Christchurch Cathedral, still undergoing repair work ten years on from a pair of devastating earthquakes, in the New Zealand city’s center, Feb. 14, 2021. A destroyed area of 8,000 properties — twice the size of New York’s Central Park — that was deemed uninhabitable and razed by the government is slowly being reclaimed by nature. (Cornell Tukiri" data-caption="The Christchurch Cathedral, still undergoing repair work ten years on from a pair of devastating earthquakes, in the New Zealand city’s center, Feb. 14, 2021. A destroyed area of 8,000 properties — twice the size of New York’s Central Park — that was deemed uninhabitable and razed by the government is slowly being reclaimed by nature. (Cornell Tukiri&amp;nbsp;2021 The New York Times)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b969f206-198c-4a8f-9907-682f327648d4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/New%20Zealand%20earthquake%20%282%29.jpg" />
Deciding what to do with the red zone has been no less vexing. The open space, though born of tragedy, is a treasure rare among major cities. And if the outdoors is vital to mental health, Christchurch may need it more than most places. The city’s treatment services are still strained a decade after the quakes, the pressure having been compounded by the terrorist attack on two mosques in 2019 that killed 51 people.

But planning for the zone has taken years and remains unsettled. The Christchurch City Council and the central government have focused on the central city at the expense of the abandoned suburbs, said Yani Johanson, a city councilor for an area straddling part of the red zone.

Advocates for conservation projects on the land have urged the council to commit to ecological restoration.

“It should be somewhere people can come and be where their property was, but not have it ruined through large buildings,” said Celia Hogan, co-chair of the community group Greening the Red Zone, as her children ate freshly picked apples and tried to climb into a left-behind treehouse.

Years of local consultation has been necessary to determine what should happen to the land, but native tree planting should begin soon, she said. A native forest would be “a respectful way to acknowledge people who have given up sometimes their lifelong home,” she added.

A blueprint for the zone created by a central government agency in 2019 tried to balance what everyone wanted — ecology and the environment, recreation, memorial space and commercial endeavor.

There is another consideration, too. New Zealand is in the grip of a housing crisis. Johanson said pressure would most likely grow on the council to consider whether parts of the zone were truly uninhabitable, as they were deemed a decade ago.

For now, anyone who wants to walk in the red zone can park at the end of blocked-off roads and, as the sounds of the city fall away, feel like the only person on Earth.

Other sections are livelier. A patch along the Avon River on the recent Sunday felt like a bustling, untidy park — noisy with cyclists, joggers, dogs and children. On another empty street, custom-built drones buzzed around a track; nearby, parents were using a street dotted with miniature traffic signs to give their children lessons on road safety.

“The idea that it was homes once is getting less and less,” said Joanna Payne, a founding member of the group Otautahi Urban Foraging, which uses the Maori name for Christchurch. She and her friends said that when they pick fruit, they always wonder who planted the tree.

When the government sought to buy out thousands of homeowners after the 2011 quake, it intended to give them certainty about their futures. Many were angered by the offer, which was based on 4-year-old property valuations.

Some were compelled to accept in order to pay their mortgages, others when officials warned that red-zoned areas would no longer be served by utilities, infrastructure or insurance.

A handful of residents called the government’s bluff and stayed.

Brooklands, a semirural area, is home to the most united display of red-zone defiance. When the land there was judged unlivable, most residents sold up and left, but a little over a dozen homes remain.

“It’s beautiful,” said one of the homeowners, Stephen Bourke. “There’s no one here. It’s paradise.”

A project manager in the civil construction industry, Bourke repaired his 80-year-old wooden villa himself. “It doesn’t leak,” he said. “It’s all on an angle, but we’ve water-sealed it.”

Ramshackle bus shelters remain on Brooklands’ single-house streets, although no buses arrive. Surviving homes are flanked by overgrown lots.

The local authorities still collect trash and mow the verges, contrary to warnings in 2011 that they would stop, but the roads are potholed and uneven.

Bourke said he saw little point in moving elsewhere, given that much of New Zealand is prone to earthquakes and floods.

“It’s all very well having these politicians turn up and tell people where they can go,” he said. “But where are you going to tell me to go in New Zealand that’s safe to live?

First the houses and cars vanished. Fences, driveways and the other remaining markers of suburban life followed. Now, only stretches of green remain — an eerie memorial to two earthquakes that leveled Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city, 10 years ago.

First the houses and cars vanished. Fences, driveways and the other remaining markers of suburban life followed. Now, only stretches of green remain — an eerie memorial to two earthquakes that leveled Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city, 10 years ago. The undulating expanse, which begins 2 miles from downtown Christchurch, was deemed uninhabitable after the quakes, the second of which killed 185 people on Feb. 22, 2011. The 8,000 properties it encompassed were bought by the government and razed, the remnants swept away. The land now sits in limbo, a reflection of the difficult decisions Christchurch has faced about how, what and where to rebuild on disaster-prone terrain. In the central business district, cranes, diggers and drills are still a feature of nearly every street. But in the eastern suburbs, a swath nearly twice the size of Central Park in New York is steadily being reclaimed by nature. Cul-de-sacs taper into swamp and sludge, evidence of why residents left, not all of them by choice. Lawns have the look of scruffy golf courses; grass is mowed and sprayed for weeds, but nothing is newly planted. Beyond slouching lamp posts and faded road stenciling, there is little sign of a human past. Also read| Ardern leads tributes on New Zealand quake anniversary Gone wild, parts of the area, which the government named the red zone, now attract foragers. On a recent late-summer Sunday afternoon, a group of families straggled across a field of wildflowers that was once a backyard, stopping to pick yarrow and camomile for tea. A carpet of fruit on the ground below a towering pear tree was far more than they could carry off in their bags and baskets. Children crammed pears into their mouths, the next one already in hand. “They’re sweet but they’re quite crunchy,” Baxter MacArthur, 10, called from his perch halfway up the tree. The red zone is a sobering reminder that New Zealanders live in one of the most geologically active places on earth. The capital, Wellington, stands atop seismic fault lines, and the largest city, Auckland, is built on a ring of about 50 dormant volcanoes. The first of the two earthquakes a decade ago, a magnitude 7.1 convulsion on Sept. 4, 2010, caused severe structural damage in Christchurch, a city of 380,000 that is the largest on New Zealand’s South Island. No one died as a direct result, though one person had a fatal heart attack. That was followed five months later by a magnitude 6.2 quake that killed 173 people in the central city and 12 elsewhere, as facades and high-rise buildings crumbled. The city’s infrastructure — roads, bridges, water systems — was ravaged, and the central business district would remain closed for two years. The mammoth task of reinventing itself has been fraught for Christchurch, which before the quakes was a fairly conservative city featuring traditional English architecture. The efforts have proceeded slowly, but a remade downtown, greener and more compact, is emerging. Deciding what to do with the red zone has been no less vexing. The open space, though born of tragedy, is a treasure rare among major cities. And if the outdoors is vital to mental health, Christchurch may need it more than most places. The city’s treatment services are still strained a decade after the quakes, the pressure having been compounded by the terrorist attack on two mosques in 2019 that killed 51 people. But planning for the zone has taken years and remains unsettled. The Christchurch City Council and the central government have focused on the central city at the expense of the abandoned suburbs, said Yani Johanson, a city councilor for an area straddling part of the red zone. Advocates for conservation projects on the land have urged the council to commit to ecological restoration. “It should be somewhere people can come and be where their property was, but not have it ruined through large buildings,” said Celia Hogan, co-chair of the community group Greening the Red Zone, as her children ate freshly picked apples and tried to climb into a left-behind treehouse. Years of local consultation has been necessary to determine what should happen to the land, but native tree planting should begin soon, she said. A native forest would be “a respectful way to acknowledge people who have given up sometimes their lifelong home,” she added. A blueprint for the zone created by a central government agency in 2019 tried to balance what everyone wanted — ecology and the environment, recreation, memorial space and commercial endeavor. There is another consideration, too. New Zealand is in the grip of a housing crisis. Johanson said pressure would most likely grow on the council to consider whether parts of the zone were truly uninhabitable, as they were deemed a decade ago. For now, anyone who wants to walk in the red zone can park at the end of blocked-off roads and, as the sounds of the city fall away, feel like the only person on Earth. Other sections are livelier. A patch along the Avon River on the recent Sunday felt like a bustling, untidy park — noisy with cyclists, joggers, dogs and children. On another empty street, custom-built drones buzzed around a track; nearby, parents were using a street dotted with miniature traffic signs to give their children lessons on road safety. “The idea that it was homes once is getting less and less,” said Joanna Payne, a founding member of the group Otautahi Urban Foraging, which uses the Maori name for Christchurch. She and her friends said that when they pick fruit, they always wonder who planted the tree. When the government sought to buy out thousands of homeowners after the 2011 quake, it intended to give them certainty about their futures. Many were angered by the offer, which was based on 4-year-old property valuations. Some were compelled to accept in order to pay their mortgages, others when officials warned that red-zoned areas would no longer be served by utilities, infrastructure or insurance. A handful of residents called the government’s bluff and stayed. Brooklands, a semirural area, is home to the most united display of red-zone defiance. When the land there was judged unlivable, most residents sold up and left, but a little over a dozen homes remain. “It’s beautiful,” said one of the homeowners, Stephen Bourke. “There’s no one here. It’s paradise.” A project manager in the civil construction industry, Bourke repaired his 80-year-old wooden villa himself. “It doesn’t leak,” he said. “It’s all on an angle, but we’ve water-sealed it.” Ramshackle bus shelters remain on Brooklands’ single-house streets, although no buses arrive. Surviving homes are flanked by overgrown lots. The local authorities still collect trash and mow the verges, contrary to warnings in 2011 that they would stop, but the roads are potholed and uneven. Bourke said he saw little point in moving elsewhere, given that much of New Zealand is prone to earthquakes and floods. “It’s all very well having these politicians turn up and tell people where they can go,” he said. “But where are you going to tell me to go in New Zealand that’s safe to live?

10 years after Christchurch quake, a hush where 8,000 homes once stood

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern paid tribute to victims of the Christchurch earthquake Monday as New Zealand paused to mark the 10th anniversary of the disaster that claimed 185 lives.

Thousands gathered at a memorial service in the South Island city and marked a minute's silence at 12:51 pm (2351 Sunday GMT), the precise time the shallow 6.3-magnitude quake hit.

Ardern said it was a moment that changed everything in the city of 400,000.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-of-pilot-whales-stranded-in-new-zealand-9-dead-365339" hreflang="en">Dozens of pilot whales stranded in new Zealand; 9 dead</a>

"The toll could not have been more significant, and daily reminders made it harder -– a fractured landscape, aftershocks, struggling friends and neighbours, and children with deep and unseen scars," she said.

"Ten years on there will be people still living their daily lives with the long shadow of that day."

The seismic jolt crumpled office buildings, crushing dozens of people, and sent shop awnings tumbling down into pedestrians who moments before had been enjoying a lunchtime stroll.

The tragedy's aftermath was followed by a drawn-out rebuild that is only now starting to gain momentum and Ardern acknowledged many residents had found it hard to move on.

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-wrong-new-zealand-australia-clash-over-responsibility-of-terrorist-with-dual-nationality-363934">&nbsp;'It is wrong': New Zealand-Australia clash over responsibility of terrorist with dual nationality</a>

"It's been a hugely difficult decade for this city -- at times I'm sure it's felt impossible," she said.

"But as we look ahead to the coming decade, I see hope and energy and optimism, and I see Christchurch taking its rightful place amongst New Zealand's best and brightest cities."

Governor-General Patsy Reddy read the crowd a message from Britain's Queen Elizabeth II.

"While there are many sad memories of that terrible time, there is also solace in remembering how your community rose to the challenge of rebuilding your lives and supporting each other," it said.

"You displayed great fortitude in the face of sudden, overwhelming loss."

At the end of the service, wreaths were laid at a memorial wall and many in the crowd threw flowers into the city's Avon River.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern paid tribute to victims of the Christchurch earthquake Monday as New Zealand paused to mark the 10th anniversary of the disaster that claimed 185 lives.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern paid tribute to victims of the Christchurch earthquake Monday as New Zealand paused to mark the 10th anniversary of the disaster that claimed 185 lives. Thousands gathered at a memorial service in the South Island city and marked a minute's silence at 12:51 pm (2351 Sunday GMT), the precise time the shallow 6.3-magnitude quake hit. Ardern said it was a moment that changed everything in the city of 400,000. Also read| Dozens of pilot whales stranded in new Zealand; 9 dead "The toll could not have been more significant, and daily reminders made it harder -– a fractured landscape, aftershocks, struggling friends and neighbours, and children with deep and unseen scars," she said. "Ten years on there will be people still living their daily lives with the long shadow of that day." The seismic jolt crumpled office buildings, crushing dozens of people, and sent shop awnings tumbling down into pedestrians who moments before had been enjoying a lunchtime stroll. The tragedy's aftermath was followed by a drawn-out rebuild that is only now starting to gain momentum and Ardern acknowledged many residents had found it hard to move on. Also read| 'It is wrong': New Zealand-Australia clash over responsibility of terrorist with dual nationality "It's been a hugely difficult decade for this city -- at times I'm sure it's felt impossible," she said. "But as we look ahead to the coming decade, I see hope and energy and optimism, and I see Christchurch taking its rightful place amongst New Zealand's best and brightest cities." Governor-General Patsy Reddy read the crowd a message from Britain's Queen Elizabeth II. "While there are many sad memories of that terrible time, there is also solace in remembering how your community rose to the challenge of rebuilding your lives and supporting each other," it said. "You displayed great fortitude in the face of sudden, overwhelming loss." At the end of the service, wreaths were laid at a memorial wall and many in the crowd threw flowers into the city's Avon River.

Ardern leads tributes on New Zealand quake anniversary

On Wednesday the commission released its interim report, which found that up to 250,000 people suffered abuse during the time period investigated.

WION Fineprint: At least 250,000 suffered abuse in New Zealand's state care system

Jacinda Ardern has dominated the final leaders’ debate as she appeared confident and took on a subdued Judith Collins. Watch report.

New Zealand leaders hold final debate | PM Ardern takes on Oppn leader Collins | World News

A New Zealand court has sentenced a man who killed 51 people at two mosques to life in prison without parole

News Alert: Brenton Tarrant given life term imprisonment without parole

A court in New Zealand is set to begin sentencing on Monday of an Australian man who murdered 51 Muslims as they prayed in the city of Christchurch last year.

New Zealand court set to sentence Christchurch mosque shooter

'Tarrant deserves a lifetime of complete silence', says NZ PM Jacinda Ardern

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will take a call on Monday whether to go ahead with the general election on September 19, with most analysts expecting her to resist opposition calls for a delay due to a flare up in coronavirus cases in the country.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern will take a call on Monday whether to go ahead with the general election on September 19, with most analysts expecting her to resist opposition calls for a delay due to a flare up in coronavirus cases in the country. A country of five million people, a long way from anywhere, New Zealand has fared far better than most countries during the pandemic, but a spate of new infections forced Ardern earlier this week to lockdown Auckland, the largest city. Seven new cases were reported on Saturday. Also read: New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern puts Auckland on lockdown after four coronavirus cases detected Ardern has won praise for her decisive response to the pandemic, and opinion polls have shown her Labour Party in a winning position. Pollsters have been unable to survey voters since the latest outbreak, but analysts expected Ardern to decide to go ahead with the election next month,according to Reuters. The opposition National Party would like it delayed, they said, in the hope that Ardern loses some of her lustre once hardships caused by the lockdown begin to bite. "She is a savvy politician," said Grant Duncan, professor of politics at Massey University. "It pays for the government to have an election sooner rather than later, while the opposition wants it delayed." Forced to cancel campaign events due to restrictions on movement and crowds due to the health scare, the opposition has accused Ardern of using the pandemic to shore up support as she appears on television nearly everyday to reassure New Zealanders, while their own leaders struggle to draw audiences. Parliament is due to be dissolved on Monday, and Ardern told reporters on Friday that she would have decided by then, while giving assurances that the election commission had already planned for the vote - which must be held by Nov. 21 - to be conducted safely. (With inputs from Reuters)

New Zealand's PM Ardern expected to resist call to delay vote as virus flares up

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who has a reputation for keeping her cool in the face of a crisis, was undaunted by an earthquake that struck the capital Wellington on Monday while she was doing a live TV interview, and calmly continued with the programme.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who has a reputation for keeping her cool in the face of a crisis, was undaunted by an earthquake that struck the capital Wellington on Monday while she was doing a live TV interview, and calmly continued with the programme. Capital Wellington and nearby areas were shaken by a 5.8 magnitude earthquake as the live interview was underway. Ardern was speaking on a live TV interview at the time from the parliament building, called the Beehive. "We’re just having a bit of an earthquake here, Ryan...," she told the host of the show Ryan Bridge, as she, the camera and other things around her shook. "Quite a decent shake here...if you see things moving behind me. The Beehive moves a little more than most," she said. Ardern assured the host that she was safe and the interview resumed. "We are fine, I'm not under any hanging lights and I look like I am in a structurally strong place," she added. The video was soon viral on social media. Although the quake caused no damages or injuries were reported, it lasted for more than 30 seconds and caused panic in Wellington with several people in offices and homes getting under their tables for cover.

Watch: New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern remains cool as earthquake strikes during live interview

New Zealand has started to relax its strict lockdown, with residents able to travel to work, spend more time outside and order takeaway food

Thousands return to work in New Zealand

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