In a bid to help the government meet the costs of managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ), the New Zealand government has doubled the time the returning citizens are required to stay to avoid the massive quarantine fee.

The New Zealand government charges a $3,100 quarantine fee, as of now and has increased the quarantine time from three months to six months now.

This decision has been taken by the Jacinda Ardern-led government to make the MIQ system "more financially sustainable".

However, this decision has faced backlash from New Zealand citizens living abroad who have criticised the government for not thinking about the financial burden this imposes on those wanting to return back to the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-zealands-largest-city-auckland-back-to-lockdown-after-covid-19-case-366703">Also watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-zealands-largest-city-auckland-back-to-lockdown-after-covid-19-case-366703/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

People visiting from areas such as the US and Canada have expressed disappointment and frustration as they claim they are already paying nearly $3,000 for air expenses, with the addition of $270 for a pre-departure test.

"Switching it to six months is just undoable with the extra cost of MIQ [managed isolate and quarantine] – it puts it out of reach to go home before this thing is over, which seems to be the point of it all," Owen Williams, a New Zealand citizen living in Canada was quoted by Guardian. "The message is loud and clear: even if you’re a citizen, unless you’re wealthy, don’t come back."

Citizens, who were working abroad or were stuck overseas, have urged the government to think about the people who were hoping to return to New Zealand and work from home temporarily or work in the country.&nbsp;

As of now, citizens struggle to find a spot for a quarantine period which requires online booking that fills up within seconds of availability. Several Facebook groups have also popped up where people are helping others to find a way around the system and negotiate MIQ bookings.

In a bid to help the government meet the costs of managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ), the New Zealand government has doubled the time the returning citizens are required to stay to avoid the massive quarantine fee.

In a bid to help the government meet the costs of managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ), the New Zealand government has doubled the time the returning citizens are required to stay to avoid the massive quarantine fee. The New Zealand government charges a $3,100 quarantine fee, as of now and has increased the quarantine time from three months to six months now. This decision has been taken by the Jacinda Ardern-led government to make the MIQ system "more financially sustainable". However, this decision has faced backlash from New Zealand citizens living abroad who have criticised the government for not thinking about the financial burden this imposes on those wanting to return back to the country. Also watch | People visiting from areas such as the US and Canada have expressed disappointment and frustration as they claim they are already paying nearly $3,000 for air expenses, with the addition of $270 for a pre-departure test. "Switching it to six months is just undoable with the extra cost of MIQ [managed isolate and quarantine] – it puts it out of reach to go home before this thing is over, which seems to be the point of it all," Owen Williams, a New Zealand citizen living in Canada was quoted by Guardian. "The message is loud and clear: even if you’re a citizen, unless you’re wealthy, don’t come back." Citizens, who were working abroad or were stuck overseas, have urged the government to think about the people who were hoping to return to New Zealand and work from home temporarily or work in the country. As of now, citizens struggle to find a spot for a quarantine period which requires online booking that fills up within seconds of availability. Several Facebook groups have also popped up where people are helping others to find a way around the system and negotiate MIQ bookings.

Jacinda Ardern increases quarantine fee; New Zealand citizens question her empathy

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern felt "very honoured" after she realised that a large insect has been named after her. &nbsp;

Hemiandrus jacinda is the name given to a new species of wētā, a giant flightless cricket, reports The Guardian.&nbsp;

The cricket is red in colour and "long-limbed," something which is similar to Ardern's Labour party colour and symbol.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealands-jacinda-ardern-lashes-out-at-greta-thunberg-349783">New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern lashes out at Greta Thunberg</a>

New Zealand's prime minister was "aware of this and very honoured," her spokesperson said.&nbsp;

"A beetle and a lichen, along with an ant in Saudi Arabia, have also been named after her."

Steven Trewick, the scientist who named and formally described the insect, said the name had struck him for "reflecting traits of the prime minister".

Trewick, a professor in evolutionary ecology at Massey University in New Zealand, said it was a "striking" and beautiful species.

The latest-discovered species is bigger and more brightly coloured than the 17 ground wētā that already exist, and found in native forests in Northland, Bay of Plenty, Waikato and Coromandel in the upper North Island.&nbsp;

Zootaxa journal described it for the first time on Friday as "comparatively large, long-limbed, glossy and predominantly orange-red".

Trewick said it was remarkable that jacinda was not found until now given that it had been discovered near densely populated regions and that it was "not a small, cryptic beast but a hefty insect with flamboyant colouring",

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern felt "very honoured" after she realised that a large insect has been named after her. Hemiandrus jacinda is the name given to a new species of wētā, a giant flightless cricket, reports The Guardian.

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern felt "very honoured" after she realised that a large insect has been named after her. Hemiandrus jacinda is the name given to a new species of wētā, a giant flightless cricket, reports The Guardian. The cricket is red in colour and "long-limbed," something which is similar to Ardern's Labour party colour and symbol. Also read | New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern lashes out at Greta Thunberg New Zealand's prime minister was "aware of this and very honoured," her spokesperson said. "A beetle and a lichen, along with an ant in Saudi Arabia, have also been named after her." Steven Trewick, the scientist who named and formally described the insect, said the name had struck him for "reflecting traits of the prime minister". Trewick, a professor in evolutionary ecology at Massey University in New Zealand, said it was a "striking" and beautiful species. The latest-discovered species is bigger and more brightly coloured than the 17 ground wētā that already exist, and found in native forests in Northland, Bay of Plenty, Waikato and Coromandel in the upper North Island. Zootaxa journal described it for the first time on Friday as "comparatively large, long-limbed, glossy and predominantly orange-red". Trewick said it was remarkable that jacinda was not found until now given that it had been discovered near densely populated regions and that it was "not a small, cryptic beast but a hefty insect with flamboyant colouring",

Jacinda Ardern 'very honoured' after large insect species gets her name

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern accused Australia of abdicating its responsibilities by cancelling the citizenship of a woman detained in Turkey and accused of having links to the Islamic State.

Jacinda Ardern lashes at Australia in citizenship row over terror suspect

A few days after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/australia-and-new-zealand">New Zealand</a> Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, imposed a snap lockdown in Auckland, she has decided to lift the 'stay-at-home' order.

Ardern, on Wednesday, announced that she is confident the deadly coronavirus has ended and has therefore decided to lift the lockdown from its largest city, Auckland.

"(It appears) that we don't have a widespread outbreak, but rather a small chain of transmission which is manageable via our normal contact tracing and testing procedures," she said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-confirms-first-case-of-uk-variant-amid-auckland-lockdown-363640" hreflang="en">New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown</a>

The lockdown will end late Wednesday. However, the city will still remain at alert level two, under which all public gatherings have been limited to a maximum headcount of 100 and face masks have been made compulsory on all forms of public transport.

While the whole city is now allowed to step out of their homes with necessary precautions, students and staff of a specific suburban school have been asked to stay at home as the school had reported three positive cases.

Ardern, who has been widely praised for handling the pandemic nicely in her country said the snap lockdown was to make sure the country does not get infected with the new variation of the deadly virus.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/melbourne-to-end-coronavirus-lockdown-after-short-sharp-circuit-breaker-364151">Melbourne to end coronavirus lockdown after 'short, sharp circuit-breaker'</a>

"We wanted to make sure we took a cautious approach because that's much, much better than getting it wrong and having a large scale outbreak and a long lockdown," she said.

Meanwhile, health experts and scientists of New Zealand are still working to detect the source of the infection detected recently — which is a strain of the new UK variant.

"There is an indescribable anxiety that comes with the daily grind of managing a pandemic and I think we all feel it," Ardern said.

A few days after the New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, imposed a snap lockdown in Auckland, she has decided to lift the 'stay-at-home' order. Ardern, on Wednesday, announced that she is confident the deadly coronavirus has ended and has therefore decided to lift the lockdown from its largest city, Auckland.

A few days after the New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, imposed a snap lockdown in Auckland, she has decided to lift the 'stay-at-home' order. Ardern, on Wednesday, announced that she is confident the deadly coronavirus has ended and has therefore decided to lift the lockdown from its largest city, Auckland. "(It appears) that we don't have a widespread outbreak, but rather a small chain of transmission which is manageable via our normal contact tracing and testing procedures," she said. Also read| New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown The lockdown will end late Wednesday. However, the city will still remain at alert level two, under which all public gatherings have been limited to a maximum headcount of 100 and face masks have been made compulsory on all forms of public transport. While the whole city is now allowed to step out of their homes with necessary precautions, students and staff of a specific suburban school have been asked to stay at home as the school had reported three positive cases. Ardern, who has been widely praised for handling the pandemic nicely in her country said the snap lockdown was to make sure the country does not get infected with the new variation of the deadly virus. Also read| Melbourne to end coronavirus lockdown after 'short, sharp circuit-breaker' "We wanted to make sure we took a cautious approach because that's much, much better than getting it wrong and having a large scale outbreak and a long lockdown," she said. Meanwhile, health experts and scientists of New Zealand are still working to detect the source of the infection detected recently — which is a strain of the new UK variant. "There is an indescribable anxiety that comes with the daily grind of managing a pandemic and I think we all feel it," Ardern said.

New Zealand: Jacinda Ardern ends snap lockdown in Auckland

The two neighbouring countries, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/australia-and-new-zealand">Australia and New Zealand</a> seem to be in a bad position with each other over the nationality of the terrorist arrested in Turkey.

A 26-year-old woman was reportedly arrested this week in Turkey with her two children. The woman was arrested by the Turkish authorities near the Syrian border and is believed to be a member of the Islamic State extremist group.

This woman is believed to hold dual citizenship of Australia and New Zealand. However, Australia seems to be backing away from taking her responsibility.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-and-facebook-close-to-deals-with-australian-media-363691" hreflang="en">Google and Facebook 'close' to deals with Australian media</a>

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, this time, has not shied away from telling her Australian counterpart that his country is at "wrong" this time.

"Any fair minded person would consider this person an Australian and that is my view too," Ardern said in a statement. "We believe Australia has abdicated its responsibilities."

It is believed the accused had spent the majority of her childhood and adult life in Australia and also has her family members settled there. However, the Australian government has shrieked from taking her responsibility, which has now angered Ardern.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-confirms-first-case-of-uk-variant-amid-auckland-lockdown-363640" hreflang="en">New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown</a>

"It is wrong that New Zealand should shoulder the responsibility for a situation involving a woman who has not lived in New Zealand since she was six," Ardern said. "(The woman) has resided in Australia since that time, has her family in Australia and left for Syria from Australia on her Australian passport."

Ardern has accused Australia of cancelling her citizenship after her arrest, leaving New Zealand solely responsible for her terrorism-related activities and involvements.

Australia PM Scott Morrison, meanwhile, has defended this action as the best possible way to ensure the nation's security interests.&nbsp;

"We do not want to see terrorists who fought with terrorism organisations enjoying privileges of citizenship, which I think they forfeit the second they engage as an enemy of our country," Morrison said in a press conference.&nbsp;

However, he has also ensured that he will have a dialogue with Ardern. "There is still a lot more unknown about this case and where it sits and where it may go to next," he said.

Ardern has also requested Morrison to consider the future of the two children too, who have been caught in the crossfire through no fault of their own.

"Coming to New Zealand, where they have no immediate family, would not be in their best interests. We know that young children thrive best when surrounded by people who love them," she said.

The two neighbouring countries, Australia and New Zealand seem to be in a bad position with each other over the nationality of the terrorist arrested in Turkey. A 26-year-old woman was reportedly arrested this week in Turkey with her two children.

The two neighbouring countries, Australia and New Zealand seem to be in a bad position with each other over the nationality of the terrorist arrested in Turkey. A 26-year-old woman was reportedly arrested this week in Turkey with her two children. The woman was arrested by the Turkish authorities near the Syrian border and is believed to be a member of the Islamic State extremist group. This woman is believed to hold dual citizenship of Australia and New Zealand. However, Australia seems to be backing away from taking her responsibility. Also read| Google and Facebook 'close' to deals with Australian media New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, this time, has not shied away from telling her Australian counterpart that his country is at "wrong" this time. "Any fair minded person would consider this person an Australian and that is my view too," Ardern said in a statement. "We believe Australia has abdicated its responsibilities." It is believed the accused had spent the majority of her childhood and adult life in Australia and also has her family members settled there. However, the Australian government has shrieked from taking her responsibility, which has now angered Ardern. Also read| New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown "It is wrong that New Zealand should shoulder the responsibility for a situation involving a woman who has not lived in New Zealand since she was six," Ardern said. "(The woman) has resided in Australia since that time, has her family in Australia and left for Syria from Australia on her Australian passport." Ardern has accused Australia of cancelling her citizenship after her arrest, leaving New Zealand solely responsible for her terrorism-related activities and involvements. Australia PM Scott Morrison, meanwhile, has defended this action as the best possible way to ensure the nation's security interests. "We do not want to see terrorists who fought with terrorism organisations enjoying privileges of citizenship, which I think they forfeit the second they engage as an enemy of our country," Morrison said in a press conference. However, he has also ensured that he will have a dialogue with Ardern. "There is still a lot more unknown about this case and where it sits and where it may go to next," he said. Ardern has also requested Morrison to consider the future of the two children too, who have been caught in the crossfire through no fault of their own. "Coming to New Zealand, where they have no immediate family, would not be in their best interests. We know that young children thrive best when surrounded by people who love them," she said.

'It is wrong': New Zealand-Australia clash over responsibility of terrorist with dual nationality

WION Fineprint: New Zealand PM slams Australia over dual citizen detained in Turkey

New Zealand has not had any local virus cases for months until the recent infections and was ranked the best performing in an index of almost 100 countries based on containment of the coronavirus

New Zealand city enters 3-day lockdown after virus found

After halting the refugee intake for nearly a year, New Zealand said it will start receiving refugees again from this month.

The island-country had shut the refugee intake for nearly a year to stop the possible spread of the deadly coronavirus.

On Friday, the Jacinda Ardern-led government announced they will be resuming the refugee intake now, with the first group arriving soon.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/here-are-top-10-countries-that-battled-covid-pandemic-the-best-359883">Here are top 10 countries that battled COVID pandemic the best</a>

The first group will be of 35 refugees, who will be arriving in February itself and nearly 210 refugees coming to the country by the end of June, Immigration New Zealand officials reported.

"With health protocols in place and safe travel routes, we are ready to welcome small groups of refugee families as New Zealand residents to this country, to begin their new lives," Fiona Whiteridge, general manager for refugee and migrant services at Immigration New Zealand, said in a statement.

All arriving refugees, however, will still have to complete a compulsory 14-day quarantine stay in isolation facilities which will be managed by the New Zealand government.

This decision has been appreciated by the experts who had expected an increased intake of refugees (from 1,000 per year to 1,500) from last year itself, which was not carried out due to coronavirus.

Now, the intake has resumed as New Zealand was one of the first countries to completely eliminate coronavirus from within their borders and continues to be a country with zero domestically-bred cases and deaths.

Till now, New Zealand has had 62 current coronavirus cases, taking the tally to 1,959, with the latest one being reported on Friday at a coronavirus quarantine facility.&nbsp;

After halting the refugee intake for nearly a year, New Zealand said it will start receiving refugees again from this month. The island-country had shut the refugee intake for nearly a year to stop the possible spread of the deadly coronavirus.

After halting the refugee intake for nearly a year, New Zealand said it will start receiving refugees again from this month. The island-country had shut the refugee intake for nearly a year to stop the possible spread of the deadly coronavirus. On Friday, the Jacinda Ardern-led government announced they will be resuming the refugee intake now, with the first group arriving soon. Also read| Here are top 10 countries that battled COVID pandemic the best The first group will be of 35 refugees, who will be arriving in February itself and nearly 210 refugees coming to the country by the end of June, Immigration New Zealand officials reported. "With health protocols in place and safe travel routes, we are ready to welcome small groups of refugee families as New Zealand residents to this country, to begin their new lives," Fiona Whiteridge, general manager for refugee and migrant services at Immigration New Zealand, said in a statement. All arriving refugees, however, will still have to complete a compulsory 14-day quarantine stay in isolation facilities which will be managed by the New Zealand government. This decision has been appreciated by the experts who had expected an increased intake of refugees (from 1,000 per year to 1,500) from last year itself, which was not carried out due to coronavirus. Now, the intake has resumed as New Zealand was one of the first countries to completely eliminate coronavirus from within their borders and continues to be a country with zero domestically-bred cases and deaths. Till now, New Zealand has had 62 current coronavirus cases, taking the tally to 1,959, with the latest one being reported on Friday at a coronavirus quarantine facility.

New Zealand to resume refugee intake with 35 arriving in February

China and New Zealand signed a deal on Tuesday upgrading a free trade pact to give exports from the Pacific nation greater access to the world’s second-largest economy.

The pact comes as Beijing seeks to establish itself as a strong advocate of multilateralism after a bruising trade war with the United States, at a time when the coronavirus has forced the closure of many international borders.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern confirmed the signing of the expanded deal.

“China remains one of our most important trade partners...For this to take place during the global economic crisis bought about by COVID-19 makes it particularly important,” she told a news conference.

The pact widens an existing trade deal with China to ensure it remains fit for purpose for another decade, Trade Minister Damien O’Connor said in a statement.

It provides for tariffs to be either removed or cut on many of New Zealand’s mostly commodities-based exports, ranging from dairy to timber and seafood, while compliance costs will also be reduced.

China's multilateral push

“The upgrade shows the two sides’ firm determination to support multilateralism and free trade,” Zhao Lijian, a spokesman of China’s foreign ministry, told a news briefing in Beijing on Tuesday.

The previous day, speaking at a virtual meeting of the World Economic Forum, President Xi Jinping had criticised isolationism and “Cold War” thinking and called for barriers to trade, investment and technological exchange to be removed.

In recent months, Beijing has signed an investment pact with the European Union and joined the world’s largest free trade bloc in the 15-country Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which includes New Zealand.

China has also expressed interest in joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) Agreement, the successor to a pact from which Washington withdrew.

China’s new deal with Wellington also opens up sectors such as aviation, education and finance. In exchange, New Zealand will increase visa quotas for Chinese language teachers and tour guides, the official Xinhua news agency said.

New Zealand was the first developed nation to sign a free trade pact with China in 2008, and has long been touted by Beijing as an exemplar of Western engagement.

China is now New Zealand’s largest trading partner, with annual two-way trade of more than NZ$32 billion ($21.58 billion).

But ties have been tested under Ardern’s government as New Zealand criticised China’s influence on small Pacific islands and raised human rights concerns about Muslim Uighurs.

Ardern also backed Taiwan’s participation at the World Health Organization (WHO) despite a warning from Beijing.

The wider trade pact also comes as Beijing’s ties with neighbouring Australia worsened after Canberra called for an independent investigation into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic, which was first reported in central China.

Australia has appealed to the World Trade Organization to review China’s decision to impose hefty tariffs on imports of its barley.

New Zealand, which will host the regional Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit this year, has said it would be willing to help negotiate a truce between China and Australia.

China and New Zealand signed a deal on Tuesday upgrading a free trade pact to give exports from the Pacific nation greater access to the world’s second-largest economy.

China and New Zealand signed a deal on Tuesday upgrading a free trade pact to give exports from the Pacific nation greater access to the world’s second-largest economy. The pact comes as Beijing seeks to establish itself as a strong advocate of multilateralism after a bruising trade war with the United States, at a time when the coronavirus has forced the closure of many international borders. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern confirmed the signing of the expanded deal. “China remains one of our most important trade partners...For this to take place during the global economic crisis bought about by COVID-19 makes it particularly important,” she told a news conference. The pact widens an existing trade deal with China to ensure it remains fit for purpose for another decade, Trade Minister Damien O’Connor said in a statement. It provides for tariffs to be either removed or cut on many of New Zealand’s mostly commodities-based exports, ranging from dairy to timber and seafood, while compliance costs will also be reduced. China's multilateral push “The upgrade shows the two sides’ firm determination to support multilateralism and free trade,” Zhao Lijian, a spokesman of China’s foreign ministry, told a news briefing in Beijing on Tuesday. The previous day, speaking at a virtual meeting of the World Economic Forum, President Xi Jinping had criticised isolationism and “Cold War” thinking and called for barriers to trade, investment and technological exchange to be removed. In recent months, Beijing has signed an investment pact with the European Union and joined the world’s largest free trade bloc in the 15-country Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which includes New Zealand. China has also expressed interest in joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) Agreement, the successor to a pact from which Washington withdrew. China’s new deal with Wellington also opens up sectors such as aviation, education and finance. In exchange, New Zealand will increase visa quotas for Chinese language teachers and tour guides, the official Xinhua news agency said. New Zealand was the first developed nation to sign a free trade pact with China in 2008, and has long been touted by Beijing as an exemplar of Western engagement. China is now New Zealand’s largest trading partner, with annual two-way trade of more than NZ$32 billion ($21.58 billion). But ties have been tested under Ardern’s government as New Zealand criticised China’s influence on small Pacific islands and raised human rights concerns about Muslim Uighurs. Ardern also backed Taiwan’s participation at the World Health Organization (WHO) despite a warning from Beijing. The wider trade pact also comes as Beijing’s ties with neighbouring Australia worsened after Canberra called for an independent investigation into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic, which was first reported in central China. Australia has appealed to the World Trade Organization to review China’s decision to impose hefty tariffs on imports of its barley. New Zealand, which will host the regional Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit this year, has said it would be willing to help negotiate a truce between China and Australia.

China, New Zealand ink trade deal as Beijing calls for reduced global barriers

New Zealand's Prime Minister&nbsp;Jacinda Ardern has reacted to the Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg's latest accusation towards the country.

The celebrated leader lashed out at the Thunberg claiming her government has been doing more than Thunberg might realise. Ardern was referring to Thunberg's tweet from the weekend in which she shared a news article of a local website and quoted the article that claimed, "In other words, the Government has just committed to reducing less than 1 percent of the country's emissions by 2025."

Also read|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-lashes-out-at-world-leaders-says-action-needed-not-in-sight-349127">&nbsp;Greta Thunberg lashes out at world leaders, says 'action needed not in sight'</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"In other words, the Government has just committed to reducing less than 1 percent of the country's emissions by 2025". 
Text explaining New Zealand's so-called climate emergency declaration. This is of course nothing unique to any nation. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FightFor1Point5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FightFor1Point5</a><a href="https://t.co/Yp8nuek9Pn">https://t.co/Yp8nuek9Pn</a>
— Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) <a href="https://twitter.com/GretaThunberg/status/1338057046596399106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The story retweeted by Thunberg was critical of the New Zealand government and called it as the "so-called climate emergency declaration".

Ardern took the opportunity to talk about the tweet, claiming although she has not seen the tweet yet, she has been informed it was a "reference to our public service carbon neutral goal of 2025".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/climate-change-is-making-winter-ice-more-dangerous-344406">Climate change is making winter ice more dangerous</a>

"I would, of course, give the context there that, if that was the sum ambition of any government, then that would be worthy of criticism," Ardern&nbsp;said.

"It is not our sum ambition. And it is not the totality of our plans on climate change," she said. "But again, I think that it’s actually for us just to get on with the business of fulfilling our obligations and expectations."

The statement has come a week after Ardern declared a climate emergency and had declared that her government will only be buying electric or hybrid cars from now onwards. She also explained that the government will be reducing by over 20 per cent soon. It has also been decided to slowly start phasing out the&nbsp;200 coal-fired boilers.

This tweet by Thunberg, therefore, came as a surprise to the Ardern government who added, "But equally I think it’s only a good thing [that] there are people out there continuing to urge ambition in action."&nbsp;

Thunberg had, a few days ago, lashed out at all the world leaders claiming not much was being done to meet the set targets. "Hypothetical targets are being set and big speeches are being given, yet when it comes to the immediate action we need, we are still in state of complete denial." she said.

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has reacted to the Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg's latest accusation towards the country. The celebrated leader lashed out at the Thunberg claiming her government has been doing more than Thunberg might realise.

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has reacted to the Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg's latest accusation towards the country. The celebrated leader lashed out at the Thunberg claiming her government has been doing more than Thunberg might realise. Ardern was referring to Thunberg's tweet from the weekend in which she shared a news article of a local website and quoted the article that claimed, "In other words, the Government has just committed to reducing less than 1 percent of the country's emissions by 2025." Also read| Greta Thunberg lashes out at world leaders, says 'action needed not in sight' "In other words, the Government has just committed to reducing less than 1 percent of the country's emissions by 2025". Text explaining New Zealand's so-called climate emergency declaration. This is of course nothing unique to any nation. #FightFor1Point5https://t.co/Yp8nuek9Pn — Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) December 13, 2020 × The story retweeted by Thunberg was critical of the New Zealand government and called it as the "so-called climate emergency declaration". Ardern took the opportunity to talk about the tweet, claiming although she has not seen the tweet yet, she has been informed it was a "reference to our public service carbon neutral goal of 2025". Also read | Climate change is making winter ice more dangerous "I would, of course, give the context there that, if that was the sum ambition of any government, then that would be worthy of criticism," Ardern said. "It is not our sum ambition. And it is not the totality of our plans on climate change," she said. "But again, I think that it’s actually for us just to get on with the business of fulfilling our obligations and expectations." The statement has come a week after Ardern declared a climate emergency and had declared that her government will only be buying electric or hybrid cars from now onwards. She also explained that the government will be reducing by over 20 per cent soon. It has also been decided to slowly start phasing out the 200 coal-fired boilers. This tweet by Thunberg, therefore, came as a surprise to the Ardern government who added, "But equally I think it’s only a good thing [that] there are people out there continuing to urge ambition in action." Thunberg had, a few days ago, lashed out at all the world leaders claiming not much was being done to meet the set targets. "Hypothetical targets are being set and big speeches are being given, yet when it comes to the immediate action we need, we are still in state of complete denial." she said.

New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern lashes out at Greta Thunberg

New Zealand security services did not focus enough on the threat from right-wing terror in the run-up to last year's Christchurch mosques attack, but could only have prevented the murders "by chance", an inquiry reported Tuesday.

The royal commission -- the most powerful judicial probe available under New Zealand law -- called for sweeping changes to counter-terrorism operations in response to the white supremacist attack in which 51 Muslim worshippers died.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/looking-at-new-zealands-response-to-christchurch-shootings-should-us-mend-their-gun-laws-323502">Looking at New Zealand's response to Christchurch shootings, should US mend their gun laws?</a>

The 800-page report said spy agencies had placed an "inappropriate" focus on Islamist extremism before the attack and did not sufficiently explore the right-wing terror threat.

But it stopped short of saying authorities could have prevented the massacre, finding that the "fragmentary" information available about lone-wolf shooter Brenton Tarrant prior to the killings was not enough to mark him as a threat.

"There was no plausible way he could have been detected except by chance," said the report on the March 2019 attack, in which Tarrant targeted men, women and children who had gathered for Friday prayers in the South Island city.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-pm-ardern-declares-climate-emergency-346825">New Zealand PM Ardern declares 'climate emergency'</a>

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern welcomed the review and vowed to look at all 44 recommendations.

She said another major criticism in the report -- lax firearms law enforcement that allowed Tarrant to amass an arsenal of military-style semi-automatic weapons -- had already been addressed by her government.

"The commission made no findings that these issues would have stopped the attack, but these were both failings nonetheless and for that I apologise," she said.

Tarrant, 30, became the first person in New Zealand to be jailed for life without the prospect of parole in August after pleading guilty to terrorism, 51 counts of murder and 40 of attempted murder.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-new-zealand-backs-australia-amid-china-dispute-347040/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The commission into New Zealand's worst modern-day massacre was originally due to report in December last year but was delayed first by the sheer volume of responses and then by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Headed by Supreme Court judge William Young and former diplomat Jacqui Caine, it interviewed more than 400 people and received 1,100 submissions.

New Zealand security services did not focus enough on the threat from right-wing terror in the run-up to last year's Christchurch mosques attack, but could only have prevented the murders "by chance", an inquiry reported Tuesday.

New Zealand security services did not focus enough on the threat from right-wing terror in the run-up to last year's Christchurch mosques attack, but could only have prevented the murders "by chance", an inquiry reported Tuesday. The royal commission -- the most powerful judicial probe available under New Zealand law -- called for sweeping changes to counter-terrorism operations in response to the white supremacist attack in which 51 Muslim worshippers died. Also read| Looking at New Zealand's response to Christchurch shootings, should US mend their gun laws? The 800-page report said spy agencies had placed an "inappropriate" focus on Islamist extremism before the attack and did not sufficiently explore the right-wing terror threat. But it stopped short of saying authorities could have prevented the massacre, finding that the "fragmentary" information available about lone-wolf shooter Brenton Tarrant prior to the killings was not enough to mark him as a threat. "There was no plausible way he could have been detected except by chance," said the report on the March 2019 attack, in which Tarrant targeted men, women and children who had gathered for Friday prayers in the South Island city. Also read| New Zealand PM Ardern declares 'climate emergency' New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern welcomed the review and vowed to look at all 44 recommendations. She said another major criticism in the report -- lax firearms law enforcement that allowed Tarrant to amass an arsenal of military-style semi-automatic weapons -- had already been addressed by her government. "The commission made no findings that these issues would have stopped the attack, but these were both failings nonetheless and for that I apologise," she said. Tarrant, 30, became the first person in New Zealand to be jailed for life without the prospect of parole in August after pleading guilty to terrorism, 51 counts of murder and 40 of attempted murder. × The commission into New Zealand's worst modern-day massacre was originally due to report in December last year but was delayed first by the sheer volume of responses and then by the Covid-19 pandemic. Headed by Supreme Court judge William Young and former diplomat Jacqui Caine, it interviewed more than 400 people and received 1,100 submissions.

Christchurch mosques attack could only have been prevented 'by chance': Inquiry

However, the Royal Commission of Inquiry, which conducted the report, said there were no failings within government agencies that would have alerted them to the attack by Brenton Tarrant.

'New Zealand police failed to enforce checks on firearm licenses', claims Christchurch attack report

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declared a "climate emergency" on Wednesday, telling parliament that urgent action was needed for the sake of future generations.

Ardern said the science on climate change was clear and New Zealand had to acknowledge the threat.

The centre-left leader said the challenges posed by global warming meant parliament's declaration -- an act undertaken by more than a dozen other countries -- was warranted.

"In those cases where we do issue declarations, it is often where there is a threat to life, a threat to property, and civil defence emergencies," she told parliament.

"If we do not respond to climate change, we will continue to have these emergencies on our shores."

Lawmakers passed the largely symbolic emergency declaration by 76 votes to 43 after Ardern urged them to back the move.

"Vote in favour of this declaration, be on the right side of history, be part of the solution we must collectively deliver for the next generation," she said.

Britain's parliament became the first in the world to declare a climate emergency, passing the motion in May last year, followed closely by Ireland.

According to The Climate Mobilisation, a US lobby group pushing for such declarations, more than a dozen nations have followed suit, along with 1,800 local authorities in cities and towns globally.

The group argues that such declarations represent a critical first step in acknowledging the scale of the climate challenge and will spur action towards reversing global warming.&nbsp;

New Zealand's centre-right opposition National Party rejected the climate emergency declaration, labelling it "virtue signalling".

"It can do harm in making people think that by declaring an emergency something has happened, when it hasn't," National leader Judith Collins told Radio New Zealand.&nbsp;

"It's quite false and misleading." &nbsp;

Ardern last year committed New Zealand to become carbon neutral by 2050 and to generate all its energy from renewable sources by 2035.

She has also halted all new offshore oil and gas exploration in New Zealand waters.

However, critics say that Ardern's government has not done enough to enhance New Zealand's "clean, green" reputation since she took office in 2017 after campaigning strongly on environmental issues.&nbsp;

Climate Action Tracker -- a science-led independent assessment service -- rates New Zealand's climate policies "insufficient" to meet its goals under the 2015 Paris climate accord.

Greenpeace noted Ardern's 2050 carbon-neutral pledge specifically excluded one of New Zealand's major greenhouse gas sources, methane, to protect the lucrative agricultural sector.&nbsp;

Greenpeace campaigner Kate Simcock said Ardern's action on climate did not match her rhetoric.&nbsp;

"When the house is on fire, there's no point hitting the alarm without fighting the fire as well," she said.&nbsp;

"Fighting the fire in New Zealand means tackling agricultural emissions."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declared a "climate emergency" on Wednesday, telling parliament that urgent action was needed for the sake of future generations.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declared a "climate emergency" on Wednesday, telling parliament that urgent action was needed for the sake of future generations. Ardern said the science on climate change was clear and New Zealand had to acknowledge the threat. The centre-left leader said the challenges posed by global warming meant parliament's declaration -- an act undertaken by more than a dozen other countries -- was warranted. "In those cases where we do issue declarations, it is often where there is a threat to life, a threat to property, and civil defence emergencies," she told parliament. "If we do not respond to climate change, we will continue to have these emergencies on our shores." Lawmakers passed the largely symbolic emergency declaration by 76 votes to 43 after Ardern urged them to back the move. "Vote in favour of this declaration, be on the right side of history, be part of the solution we must collectively deliver for the next generation," she said. Britain's parliament became the first in the world to declare a climate emergency, passing the motion in May last year, followed closely by Ireland. According to The Climate Mobilisation, a US lobby group pushing for such declarations, more than a dozen nations have followed suit, along with 1,800 local authorities in cities and towns globally. The group argues that such declarations represent a critical first step in acknowledging the scale of the climate challenge and will spur action towards reversing global warming. New Zealand's centre-right opposition National Party rejected the climate emergency declaration, labelling it "virtue signalling". "It can do harm in making people think that by declaring an emergency something has happened, when it hasn't," National leader Judith Collins told Radio New Zealand. "It's quite false and misleading." Ardern last year committed New Zealand to become carbon neutral by 2050 and to generate all its energy from renewable sources by 2035. She has also halted all new offshore oil and gas exploration in New Zealand waters. However, critics say that Ardern's government has not done enough to enhance New Zealand's "clean, green" reputation since she took office in 2017 after campaigning strongly on environmental issues. Climate Action Tracker -- a science-led independent assessment service -- rates New Zealand's climate policies "insufficient" to meet its goals under the 2015 Paris climate accord. Greenpeace noted Ardern's 2050 carbon-neutral pledge specifically excluded one of New Zealand's major greenhouse gas sources, methane, to protect the lucrative agricultural sector. Greenpeace campaigner Kate Simcock said Ardern's action on climate did not match her rhetoric. "When the house is on fire, there's no point hitting the alarm without fighting the fire as well," she said. "Fighting the fire in New Zealand means tackling agricultural emissions."

New Zealand PM Ardern declares 'climate emergency'

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern`s government is to declare a climate emergency in a symbolic step to increase pressure for action to combat global warming.

The government will put forward a motion to declare the emergency next Wednesday, the government said as parliament reconvened after a general election won by Ardern`s party.

"We’ve always considered climate change to be a huge threat to our region, and it is something we must take immediate action on," Ardern said, according to state broadcaster TVNZ.

"Unfortunately, we were unable to progress a motion around a climate emergency in parliament in the last term, but now we’re able to."

Ardern returned to power last month delivering the biggest election victory for her centre-left Labour Party in half a century as voters rewarded her for a decisive response to the novel coronavirus.

The resounding win allows Ardern`s party to govern alone although she has joined forces with the Green Party for the next three-year term.

The newly elected members of parliament were sworn in on Tuesday and resumed work on Wednesday in New Zealand`s most diverse parliament ever. It has several people of colour, members of rainbow communities and a large number of women.

In her last term, Ardern`s government passed a Zero Carbon Bill, which sets the framework for net zero emissions by 2050, with cross-party support in parliament.

If a climate emergency is passed, New Zealand would join countries like Canada, France and Britain that have taken the same course to focus efforts on tackling climate change.

Last week, Japanese lawmakers declared a climate emergency and committed to a firm timetable for net-zero emissions.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern`s government is to declare a climate emergency in a symbolic step to increase pressure for action to combat global warming.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern`s government is to declare a climate emergency in a symbolic step to increase pressure for action to combat global warming. The government will put forward a motion to declare the emergency next Wednesday, the government said as parliament reconvened after a general election won by Ardern`s party. "We’ve always considered climate change to be a huge threat to our region, and it is something we must take immediate action on," Ardern said, according to state broadcaster TVNZ. "Unfortunately, we were unable to progress a motion around a climate emergency in parliament in the last term, but now we’re able to." Ardern returned to power last month delivering the biggest election victory for her centre-left Labour Party in half a century as voters rewarded her for a decisive response to the novel coronavirus. The resounding win allows Ardern`s party to govern alone although she has joined forces with the Green Party for the next three-year term. The newly elected members of parliament were sworn in on Tuesday and resumed work on Wednesday in New Zealand`s most diverse parliament ever. It has several people of colour, members of rainbow communities and a large number of women. In her last term, Ardern`s government passed a Zero Carbon Bill, which sets the framework for net zero emissions by 2050, with cross-party support in parliament. If a climate emergency is passed, New Zealand would join countries like Canada, France and Britain that have taken the same course to focus efforts on tackling climate change. Last week, Japanese lawmakers declared a climate emergency and committed to a firm timetable for net-zero emissions.

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern set to declare climate emergency

The Prime Minister of New Zealand - Jacinda Ardern on Monday claimed that no meat products exported from the country carried COVID-19. This came in after Chinese authorities claimed to have found coronavirus on frozen beef products.

Over the weekend - a city in China called “Jinan” claimed that it had found traces of COVID-19 in beef and tripe. All these products hailed from Bolivia, Brazil, and New Zealand, Reuters reported.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jacinda-ardern-wins-second-term-as-new-zealand-pm-in-landslide-election-victory-336055/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Additionally, the virus was detected on the packaging of these products. Two provincial capitals also found traces of the virus on packaging of pork coming in from Argentina.

Ardern says no clarification from China

During a news conference, Ardern claimed that they were informed of coronavirus on packaging on products hailing from Argentina, and that some products from NZ were stored in the same place where traces of coronavirus were found.

"We were not advised that New Zealand products had themselves tested positive for COVID-19," Ardern said.

"This is incredibly important to New Zealand. We are confident that our products do not, and are not, exported with signs of COVID on them given our status as essentially being COVID-free," she added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/new-zealand-pm-jacinda-ardern-unveils-a-vibrant-incredibly-diverse-cabinet-339669" hreflang="en">New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern unveils a vibrant, 'incredibly diverse' cabinet</a>

New Zealand has been treated as a COVID-19 success story while countries continue to grapple with the virus. The small country has eliminated the virus twice among its people. Additionally, it only has 58 active cases right now, who are quarantined in isolation facilities.

Ardern added that her administration is seeking more information from China, but also that the China hadn’t given more clarification yet.

World's biggest beef buyer - China

China’s is the world’s biggest beef buyer. According to Chinese authorities in Jinan, capital of the Shandong province, the goods that were reportedly carrying COVID-19 were imported by a unit of Guotai International Group, and Shanghai Zhongli Development Trade.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/new-zealand-prime-minister-jacinda-ardern-credits-coronavirus-response-for-election-win-336150" hreflang="en">New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern credits coronavirus response for election win</a>

Additionally, the products entered the country through ports in Shanghai.

The WHO has said that the risk of contracting COVID-19 from frozen food remains low. Owing to this, China has increased testing on frozen foods. It has also banned a few imports, fearing the spread of coronavirus.

The Prime Minister of New Zealand - Jacinda Ardern on Monday claimed that no meat products exported from the country carried COVID-19. This came in after Chinese authorities claimed to have found coronavirus on frozen beef products.

The Prime Minister of New Zealand - Jacinda Ardern on Monday claimed that no meat products exported from the country carried COVID-19. This came in after Chinese authorities claimed to have found coronavirus on frozen beef products. Over the weekend - a city in China called “Jinan” claimed that it had found traces of COVID-19 in beef and tripe. All these products hailed from Bolivia, Brazil, and New Zealand, Reuters reported. Additionally, the virus was detected on the packaging of these products. Two provincial capitals also found traces of the virus on packaging of pork coming in from Argentina. Ardern says no clarification from China During a news conference, Ardern claimed that they were informed of coronavirus on packaging on products hailing from Argentina, and that some products from NZ were stored in the same place where traces of coronavirus were found. "We were not advised that New Zealand products had themselves tested positive for COVID-19," Ardern said. "This is incredibly important to New Zealand. We are confident that our products do not, and are not, exported with signs of COVID on them given our status as essentially being COVID-free," she added. Also read: New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern unveils a vibrant, 'incredibly diverse' cabinet New Zealand has been treated as a COVID-19 success story while countries continue to grapple with the virus. The small country has eliminated the virus twice among its people. Additionally, it only has 58 active cases right now, who are quarantined in isolation facilities. Ardern added that her administration is seeking more information from China, but also that the China hadn’t given more clarification yet. World's biggest beef buyer - China China’s is the world’s biggest beef buyer. According to Chinese authorities in Jinan, capital of the Shandong province, the goods that were reportedly carrying COVID-19 were imported by a unit of Guotai International Group, and Shanghai Zhongli Development Trade. Also read: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern credits coronavirus response for election win Additionally, the products entered the country through ports in Shanghai. The WHO has said that the risk of contracting COVID-19 from frozen food remains low. Owing to this, China has increased testing on frozen foods. It has also banned a few imports, fearing the spread of coronavirus.

No coronavirus on our meat products, asserts New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern

Jacinda Ardern was sworn in for her second term as the Prime Minister of New Zealand on Friday after final results showed the margin of her landslide victory is larger than previously estimated.&nbsp;

In a ceremony at the Government House in Wellington, Ardern along with her ministers made their oaths in Maori and English.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanca-radhakrishnan-becomes-new-zealands-first-ever-indian-origin-minister-report-339823">Priyanca Radhakrishnan becomes New Zealand's first-ever Indian-origin minister: Report</a>

"I would say simply that sitting at this table is Aotearoa New Zealand," she said, gesturing towards her group of ministers, which is a strong combination of women and Maori, as quoted by news agency AFP. &nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-pm-jacinda-ardern-unveils-a-vibrant-incredibly-diverse-cabinet-339669">New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern unveils a vibrant, 'incredibly diverse' cabinet</a>

"They collectively represent a range of different perspectives, huge talent, enormous experience and, as you would expect in any time of crisis, a huge commitment to serving this country."

The 40-year-old prime minister ensured her Labour Party's biggest win since World War II, majorly due to her deft handling of coronavirus outbreak which garnered praise worldwide.&nbsp;

Final results that were announced on Friday showed she won 50 per cent of the vote, which is an increase from 49 per cent on the election night, notching 65 seats rather than 64 in the 120-member parliament.&nbsp;

National Party, country's main opposition party, saw its seats declined to 33 from 35, leading campaign director Gerry Brownlee to resign as deputy party leader.&nbsp;

Ardern affirmed that the strong mandate is for favouring reforms, however, she said her priorities would be to contain the outbreak and rebuild the virus-hit economy.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Jacinda Ardern was sworn in for her second term as the Prime Minister of New Zealand on Friday after final results showed the margin of her landslide victory is larger than previously estimated.

Jacinda Ardern was sworn in for her second term as the Prime Minister of New Zealand on Friday after final results showed the margin of her landslide victory is larger than previously estimated. In a ceremony at the Government House in Wellington, Ardern along with her ministers made their oaths in Maori and English. Also read | Priyanca Radhakrishnan becomes New Zealand's first-ever Indian-origin minister: Report "I would say simply that sitting at this table is Aotearoa New Zealand," she said, gesturing towards her group of ministers, which is a strong combination of women and Maori, as quoted by news agency AFP. Also read | New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern unveils a vibrant, 'incredibly diverse' cabinet "They collectively represent a range of different perspectives, huge talent, enormous experience and, as you would expect in any time of crisis, a huge commitment to serving this country." The 40-year-old prime minister ensured her Labour Party's biggest win since World War II, majorly due to her deft handling of coronavirus outbreak which garnered praise worldwide. Final results that were announced on Friday showed she won 50 per cent of the vote, which is an increase from 49 per cent on the election night, notching 65 seats rather than 64 in the 120-member parliament. National Party, country's main opposition party, saw its seats declined to 33 from 35, leading campaign director Gerry Brownlee to resign as deputy party leader. Ardern affirmed that the strong mandate is for favouring reforms, however, she said her priorities would be to contain the outbreak and rebuild the virus-hit economy.

Jacinda Ardern sworn in as PM of New Zealand after massive win

After securing a victory in the general elections, Jacinda Ardern announced her new cabinet on Sunday. Ardern's deputy is an openly gay man and her foreign minister belongs to the indigenous Maori community. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more about the world's most inclusive cabinet.

Gravitas: New Zealand Unveils World's Most Diverse Cabinet

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern Monday unveiled what she called an "incredibly diverse" cabinet. The vibrant line of ministers includes the country's first openly gay deputy prime minister and a foreign minister with a Maori facial tattoo.

"It is both a cabinet with huge merit and talent, which also happens to be incredibly diverse," the 40-year-old said, while announcing the list.

The centre-left leader revamped her ministerial line-up in the wake of a landslide election victory, saying her second-term priorities were responding to Covid-19 and promoting economic recovery.

Ardern appointed Grant Robertson as deputy prime minister, making him the first openly gay person to hold the role. The 49-year old, who was chief strategist during Ardern's election campaign, retains the finance portfolio he held in the first term and also becomes infrastructure minister.

Ardern said her reasons for selecting him were his leadership qualities, not how he identified.

"One of the amazing things about New Zealand is that we are often in a space where these questions become secondary," she said.

Women and the Maori community are also strongly represented in the 20-member cabinet, including new Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta, who has a moko kauae -- a traditional Maori tattoo on the chin.

"I think it's an important point to make -- these are individuals who have been promoted for what they bring to the cabinet, they also reflect the New Zealand that elected them. I think as a country we should be proud of this," she added.

Ardern won the October 17 election campaigning on New Zealand's success containing coronavirus and her cabinet includes a new role of minister for Covid-19 response, filled by former health minister Chris Hipkins.

While Ardern won the election with an absolute majority, meaning her Labour Party can govern alone, she also appointed two Greens lawmakers to ministries outside the cabinet.

The new government will be sworn in on Friday.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern Monday unveiled what she called an "incredibly diverse" cabinet. The vibrant line of ministers includes the country's first openly gay deputy prime minister and a foreign minister with a Maori facial tattoo.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern Monday unveiled what she called an "incredibly diverse" cabinet. The vibrant line of ministers includes the country's first openly gay deputy prime minister and a foreign minister with a Maori facial tattoo. "It is both a cabinet with huge merit and talent, which also happens to be incredibly diverse," the 40-year-old said, while announcing the list. The centre-left leader revamped her ministerial line-up in the wake of a landslide election victory, saying her second-term priorities were responding to Covid-19 and promoting economic recovery. Ardern appointed Grant Robertson as deputy prime minister, making him the first openly gay person to hold the role. The 49-year old, who was chief strategist during Ardern's election campaign, retains the finance portfolio he held in the first term and also becomes infrastructure minister. Ardern said her reasons for selecting him were his leadership qualities, not how he identified. "One of the amazing things about New Zealand is that we are often in a space where these questions become secondary," she said. Women and the Maori community are also strongly represented in the 20-member cabinet, including new Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta, who has a moko kauae -- a traditional Maori tattoo on the chin. "I think it's an important point to make -- these are individuals who have been promoted for what they bring to the cabinet, they also reflect the New Zealand that elected them. I think as a country we should be proud of this," she added. Ardern won the October 17 election campaigning on New Zealand's success containing coronavirus and her cabinet includes a new role of minister for Covid-19 response, filled by former health minister Chris Hipkins. While Ardern won the election with an absolute majority, meaning her Labour Party can govern alone, she also appointed two Greens lawmakers to ministries outside the cabinet. The new government will be sworn in on Friday.

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern unveils a vibrant, 'incredibly diverse' cabinet

Ardern appointed Grant Robertson as deputy prime minister, making him the first openly gay person to hold the role.

New Zealand gets tattooed Maori Foreign Minister, gay Deputy PM

New Zealanders overwhelmingly supported legalising euthanasia in a referendum held on October 17, preliminary data showed.&nbsp;

However, vote on permitting recreational cannabis set to fail with 53 per cent opposing the move, as per the initial data.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-blocks-livestream-of-euthanasia-campaigners-death-325557">Facebook blocks livestream of euthanasia campaigner's death</a>

The figures revealed that 65.2 per cent of people voted to support euthanasia and 33 per cent voting against it.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/historical-high-new-zealands-newly-elected-parliament-is-the-most-diverse-ever-336318">'Historical high': New Zealand's newly elected parliament is the most diverse ever</a>

However, the preliminary results don't include special votes, that include ballots cast overseas, which comprise nearly 20 per cent of the total and favourable voting could work in favour of legalising marijuana.&nbsp;

The final verdict on euthanasia, though, will not be going to change regardless of which way special votes will go.&nbsp;

The final results will come on next Friday and will be binding on the euthanasia referendum, but not in the case of cannabis.&nbsp;

Last year, parliament cleared legislation to allow medically-assisted euthanasia, but the law was not enforced as the lawmakers wanted a say of the public on it.&nbsp;

As per the law, a mentally sound adult who is facing a terminal illness which is likely to take that person's life within six months and he/she is facing "unbearable suffering" because of it could request a fatal dose of medication.&nbsp;

New Zealanders overwhelmingly supported legalising euthanasia in a referendum held on October 17, preliminary data showed. However, vote on permitting recreational cannabis set to fail with 53 per cent opposing the move, as per the initial data.

New Zealanders overwhelmingly supported legalising euthanasia in a referendum held on October 17, preliminary data showed. However, vote on permitting recreational cannabis set to fail with 53 per cent opposing the move, as per the initial data. Also read | Facebook blocks livestream of euthanasia campaigner's death The figures revealed that 65.2 per cent of people voted to support euthanasia and 33 per cent voting against it. Also read | 'Historical high': New Zealand's newly elected parliament is the most diverse ever However, the preliminary results don't include special votes, that include ballots cast overseas, which comprise nearly 20 per cent of the total and favourable voting could work in favour of legalising marijuana. The final verdict on euthanasia, though, will not be going to change regardless of which way special votes will go. The final results will come on next Friday and will be binding on the euthanasia referendum, but not in the case of cannabis. Last year, parliament cleared legislation to allow medically-assisted euthanasia, but the law was not enforced as the lawmakers wanted a say of the public on it. As per the law, a mentally sound adult who is facing a terminal illness which is likely to take that person's life within six months and he/she is facing "unbearable suffering" because of it could request a fatal dose of medication.

New Zealand: Euthanasia gets immense support, suspense on marijuana continues

In an historical high,&nbsp;New Zealand's next parliament is set to be the most inclusive ever,&nbsp;with several people of colour, members from the rainbow communities and a high number of women.

Among 40 new faces entering the parliament will include first African, Latin American and Sri Lankan MPs.

Seven out of 10 seats from the Green Party along with over half of Labour Party's seats will be occupied by women.

The ruling Labour Party was handed a resounding mandate in the election over the weekend, as voters rewarded Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern for her decisive response to coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-prime-minister-jacinda-ardern-credits-coronavirus-response-for-election-win-336150">New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern credits coronavirus response for election win</a>

Although Ardern has the numbers to govern alone, she is in talks with former ally the Green Party to build a wider consensus.&nbsp;

Labour won 64 of the 120 parliamentary seats, and more than half of those are female candidates. It also has 16 indigenous Maori MPs, the first leader of African origin, Ibrahim Omar, and Vanushi Walters of Sri Lankan origin.

"This is the most diverse parliament we have ever had in terms of gender, and minority ethnic and indigenous representation," said Professor Paul Spoonley from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Massey University.

Its also expected to be the most rainbow representative parliament system in the world, with about 10% of the members in the 120-seat house being openly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender.

This includes prominent leaders like Finance Minister Grant Robertson who is openly gay.

The Greens surprisingly won as many as 10 seats in parliament and a majority of them are women, indigenous leaders or LGBTQ+.

The majority of the new MPs elected into parliament are also much younger and many of them are millennials, Spoonley said.

"What we have seen is a departure of many of the older, male, white MPs including some who have been in parliament for over 30 years," said Spoonley.

Ardern herself arrived onto the global scene in 2017 when she became the world's youngest female head of government at the age of 37.

The 40-year-old leader is feted globally as a progressive leader, who is a champion for woman's rights, equality and inclusivity.

In an historical high, New Zealand's next parliament is set to be the most inclusive ever, with several people of colour, members from the rainbow communities and a high number of women.

In an historical high, New Zealand's next parliament is set to be the most inclusive ever, with several people of colour, members from the rainbow communities and a high number of women. Among 40 new faces entering the parliament will include first African, Latin American and Sri Lankan MPs. Seven out of 10 seats from the Green Party along with over half of Labour Party's seats will be occupied by women. The ruling Labour Party was handed a resounding mandate in the election over the weekend, as voters rewarded Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern for her decisive response to coronavirus. Also read: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern credits coronavirus response for election win Although Ardern has the numbers to govern alone, she is in talks with former ally the Green Party to build a wider consensus. Labour won 64 of the 120 parliamentary seats, and more than half of those are female candidates. It also has 16 indigenous Maori MPs, the first leader of African origin, Ibrahim Omar, and Vanushi Walters of Sri Lankan origin. "This is the most diverse parliament we have ever had in terms of gender, and minority ethnic and indigenous representation," said Professor Paul Spoonley from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Massey University. Its also expected to be the most rainbow representative parliament system in the world, with about 10% of the members in the 120-seat house being openly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender. This includes prominent leaders like Finance Minister Grant Robertson who is openly gay. The Greens surprisingly won as many as 10 seats in parliament and a majority of them are women, indigenous leaders or LGBTQ+. The majority of the new MPs elected into parliament are also much younger and many of them are millennials, Spoonley said. "What we have seen is a departure of many of the older, male, white MPs including some who have been in parliament for over 30 years," said Spoonley. Ardern herself arrived onto the global scene in 2017 when she became the world's youngest female head of government at the age of 37. The 40-year-old leader is feted globally as a progressive leader, who is a champion for woman's rights, equality and inclusivity.

'Historical high': New Zealand's newly elected parliament is the most diverse ever

Jacinda Ardern, the newly elected Prime Minister of New Zealand on Sunday said that she sees the election result as an endorsement of her government’s efforts to stamp out the coronavirus and reboot the economy. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jacinda-ardern-wins-landslide-re-election-in-new-zealand-vote-opposition-concedes-335982">Also read | Jacinda Ardern wins landslide re-election in New Zealand vote; opposition concedes</a> 
 
“We expect to form a new government within three weeks and to prioritize work on the virus response,” she said speaking at a cafe near her Auckland home.

“We're cracking on very quickly with the work we need to do as a new team,” Ardern said.

Ahead of the vote, Ardern had dubbed it "the Covid election".

Yesterday, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's Labour Party overwhelmingly won the country's general election.

The mandate implies Ardern, 40, could form the first single-party government in decades, and face the challenge of delivering on the progressive transformation she promised but failed to deliver in her first term, where Labour shared power with a nationalist party.

"Thank you to the many people who gave us their vote, who trusted us to continue leading New Zealand's recovery," she told cheering supporters, adding that her centre-left Labour Party had seen its highest level of support in at least 50 years.

Labour had 49.0% of the votes, far ahead of National at 27%, the Electoral Commission said, with 77% of ballots counted in an election that was largely a referendum on Ardern`s aggressive handling of COVID-19.

Of Ardern's current coalition partners, the nationalist New Zealand First Party had 2.6% and the Green Party 7.6%. If she is unable to form a Labour-only government, she is expected to continue to rely on the minor Greens while jettisoning New Zealand First.

A Labour-Green coalition would be the first fully left-leaning government since the 1970s, a scenario that National`s Collins warned would mean more taxes and an environment hostile to business.

Ardern has pledged to raise taxes on top earners, while Collins promised short-term tax cuts, but they have otherwise shown few major differences on policy. 
The prime minister won global acclaim for her handling of a mass shooting last year by a white supremacist in Christchurch, with her inclusive "be strong, be kind" mantra and swift action to ban guns.

She burnished that reputation this year with a "go hard, go early" approach to the new coronavirus, which has eliminated locally spread COVID-19 in the nation. 
The election was delayed by a month after new COVID-19 infections in Auckland, which led to a second lockdown in the country's largest city.

New Zealanders also voted on Saturday in referendums to legalise euthanasia and recreational marijuana, with results to be announced on October 30. The latter vote could make New Zealand only the third country in the world to allow the adult use and sale of cannabis nationwide, after Uruguay and Canada.

(With inputs from agencies)

Jacinda Ardern, the newly elected Prime Minister of New Zealand on Sunday said that she sees the election result as an endorsement of her government’s efforts to stamp out the coronavirus and reboot the economy.

Jacinda Ardern, the newly elected Prime Minister of New Zealand on Sunday said that she sees the election result as an endorsement of her government’s efforts to stamp out the coronavirus and reboot the economy. Also read | Jacinda Ardern wins landslide re-election in New Zealand vote; opposition concedes “We expect to form a new government within three weeks and to prioritize work on the virus response,” she said speaking at a cafe near her Auckland home. “We're cracking on very quickly with the work we need to do as a new team,” Ardern said. Ahead of the vote, Ardern had dubbed it "the Covid election". Yesterday, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's Labour Party overwhelmingly won the country's general election. The mandate implies Ardern, 40, could form the first single-party government in decades, and face the challenge of delivering on the progressive transformation she promised but failed to deliver in her first term, where Labour shared power with a nationalist party. "Thank you to the many people who gave us their vote, who trusted us to continue leading New Zealand's recovery," she told cheering supporters, adding that her centre-left Labour Party had seen its highest level of support in at least 50 years. Labour had 49.0% of the votes, far ahead of National at 27%, the Electoral Commission said, with 77% of ballots counted in an election that was largely a referendum on Ardern`s aggressive handling of COVID-19. Of Ardern's current coalition partners, the nationalist New Zealand First Party had 2.6% and the Green Party 7.6%. If she is unable to form a Labour-only government, she is expected to continue to rely on the minor Greens while jettisoning New Zealand First. A Labour-Green coalition would be the first fully left-leaning government since the 1970s, a scenario that National`s Collins warned would mean more taxes and an environment hostile to business. Ardern has pledged to raise taxes on top earners, while Collins promised short-term tax cuts, but they have otherwise shown few major differences on policy. The prime minister won global acclaim for her handling of a mass shooting last year by a white supremacist in Christchurch, with her inclusive "be strong, be kind" mantra and swift action to ban guns. She burnished that reputation this year with a "go hard, go early" approach to the new coronavirus, which has eliminated locally spread COVID-19 in the nation. The election was delayed by a month after new COVID-19 infections in Auckland, which led to a second lockdown in the country's largest city. New Zealanders also voted on Saturday in referendums to legalise euthanasia and recreational marijuana, with results to be announced on October 30. The latter vote could make New Zealand only the third country in the world to allow the adult use and sale of cannabis nationwide, after Uruguay and Canada. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern credits coronavirus response for election win

Polling booths opened in New Zealand as the voters came out to choose the next Prime Minister. Incumbent Jacinda Ardern is looking to consolidate her hold on the government by winning another term while Conservatives led by Judith Collins is seeking to unseat her. The polling booths opened at 2000 GMT on Friday (1:30 am, Saturday by IST).&nbsp;

Jacinda Ardern is hoping to steer her left-of-center government to victory riding on her handling of the coronavirus pandemic in New Zealand. The elections were due to be held on September 19 but were delayed by coronavirus outbreak in Auckland that has now been contained.

New Zealand is one of the few countries in the world where wearing mask is not mandatory as the pandemic has been contained. Jacinda Ardern has won global praise for her handling of the outbreak. Her challenger Judith Collins has positioned herself as a candidate better suited to handle the financial difficulties New Zealand is likely to encounter.

Restrictions are in place on what news media can report about the race until polls close at 7 p.m. (0600 GMT), after which the Electoral Commission is expected to begin releasing preliminary results.

The Electoral Commission said on Saturday that almost 2 million ballots had already been cast as of Friday, accounting for more than half of the roughly 3.5 million New Zealanders on the electoral rolls.

Special votes, including ballots from New Zealanders overseas and those who vote outside their home constituencies, will only be released on Nov. 6.

This means that result of the election may be declared as early as Saturday night.

Voters will also cast ballots in two referendums, one on legalising recreational cannabis and the other on legalising euthanasia, although the results of those votes will not be known until October 30.

New Zealand switched to a mixed member proportional system in 1996 in which a party or coalition needs 61 of Parliament's 120 seats - usually about 48% of the vote - to form a government.

This means minor parties often play an influential role in determining which major party governs.

(With agency inputs)

Polling booths opened in New Zealand as the voters came out to choose the next Prime Minister. Incumbent Jacinda Ardern is looking to consolidate her hold on the government by winning another term while Conservatives led by Judith Collins is seeking to unseat her.

Polling booths opened in New Zealand as the voters came out to choose the next Prime Minister. Incumbent Jacinda Ardern is looking to consolidate her hold on the government by winning another term while Conservatives led by Judith Collins is seeking to unseat her. The polling booths opened at 2000 GMT on Friday (1:30 am, Saturday by IST). Jacinda Ardern is hoping to steer her left-of-center government to victory riding on her handling of the coronavirus pandemic in New Zealand. The elections were due to be held on September 19 but were delayed by coronavirus outbreak in Auckland that has now been contained. New Zealand is one of the few countries in the world where wearing mask is not mandatory as the pandemic has been contained. Jacinda Ardern has won global praise for her handling of the outbreak. Her challenger Judith Collins has positioned herself as a candidate better suited to handle the financial difficulties New Zealand is likely to encounter. Restrictions are in place on what news media can report about the race until polls close at 7 p.m. (0600 GMT), after which the Electoral Commission is expected to begin releasing preliminary results. The Electoral Commission said on Saturday that almost 2 million ballots had already been cast as of Friday, accounting for more than half of the roughly 3.5 million New Zealanders on the electoral rolls. Special votes, including ballots from New Zealanders overseas and those who vote outside their home constituencies, will only be released on Nov. 6. This means that result of the election may be declared as early as Saturday night. Voters will also cast ballots in two referendums, one on legalising recreational cannabis and the other on legalising euthanasia, although the results of those votes will not be known until October 30. New Zealand switched to a mixed member proportional system in 1996 in which a party or coalition needs 61 of Parliament's 120 seats - usually about 48% of the vote - to form a government. This means minor parties often play an influential role in determining which major party governs. (With agency inputs)

Jacinda Ardern looks to win second term as poll booths open in New Zealand

Voting is underway in New Zealand elections 2020. Will PM Jacinda Ardern win a second term in office?

Will Jacinda Ardern win a second term? New Zealand election 2020

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's Labour Party overwhelmingly won the country's general election on Saturday.

The mandate implies Ardern, 40, could form the first single-party government in decades, and face the challenge of delivering on the progressive transformation she promised but failed to deliver in her first term, where Labour shared power with a nationalist party.

Opposition National Party leader Judith Collins said she had called the prime minister to congratulate her for an "outstanding result".

"To Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who I have phoned, congratulations on your result because it is, I believe, an outstanding result for the Labour Party," Collins said in a televised speech.

Ardern came out of her home in Auckland, waved and hugged gathered supporters. She&nbsp;thanked her countrymen for delivering her party the landslide general election victory on the back of her government's success fighting the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Thank you to the many people who gave us their vote, who trusted us to continue leading New Zealand's recovery," she told cheering supporters, adding that her centre-left Labour Party had seen its highest level of support in at least 50 years.

Labour had 49.0% of the votes, far ahead of National at 27%, the Electoral Commission said, with 77% of ballots counted in an election that was largely a referendum on Ardern`s aggressive handling of COVID-19.

Of Ardern's current coalition partners, the nationalist New Zealand First Party had 2.6% and the Green Party 7.6%. If she is unable to form a Labour-only government, she is expected to continue to rely on the minor Greens while jettisoning New Zealand First.

A Labour-Green coalition would be the first fully left-leaning government since the 1970s, a scenario that National`s Collins warned would mean more taxes and an environment hostile to business.

Ardern has pledged to raise taxes on top earners, while Collins promised short-term tax cuts, but they have otherwise shown few major differences on policy.

The prime minister won global acclaim for her handling of a mass shooting last year by a white supremacist in Christchurch, with her inclusive "be strong, be kind" mantra and swift action to ban guns.

She burnished that reputation this year with a "go hard, go early" approach to the new coronavirus, which has eliminated locally spread COVID-19 in the nation.

The election was delayed by a month after new COVID-19 infections in Auckland, that led to a second lockdown in the country's largest city.

New Zealanders also voted on Saturday in referendums to legalise euthanasia and recreational marijuana, with results to be announced on October 30. The latter vote could make New Zealand only the third country in the world to allow the adult use and sale of cannabis nationwide, after Uruguay and Canada.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's Labour Party overwhelmingly won the country's general election on Saturday. The mandate implies Ardern, 40, could form the first single-party government in decades, and face the challenge of delivering on the progressive transformation she promised but failed to deliver in her first term, where Labour shared power with a nationalist party.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's Labour Party overwhelmingly won the country's general election on Saturday. The mandate implies Ardern, 40, could form the first single-party government in decades, and face the challenge of delivering on the progressive transformation she promised but failed to deliver in her first term, where Labour shared power with a nationalist party. Opposition National Party leader Judith Collins said she had called the prime minister to congratulate her for an "outstanding result". "To Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who I have phoned, congratulations on your result because it is, I believe, an outstanding result for the Labour Party," Collins said in a televised speech. Ardern came out of her home in Auckland, waved and hugged gathered supporters. She thanked her countrymen for delivering her party the landslide general election victory on the back of her government's success fighting the Covid-19 pandemic. "Thank you to the many people who gave us their vote, who trusted us to continue leading New Zealand's recovery," she told cheering supporters, adding that her centre-left Labour Party had seen its highest level of support in at least 50 years. Labour had 49.0% of the votes, far ahead of National at 27%, the Electoral Commission said, with 77% of ballots counted in an election that was largely a referendum on Ardern`s aggressive handling of COVID-19. Of Ardern's current coalition partners, the nationalist New Zealand First Party had 2.6% and the Green Party 7.6%. If she is unable to form a Labour-only government, she is expected to continue to rely on the minor Greens while jettisoning New Zealand First. A Labour-Green coalition would be the first fully left-leaning government since the 1970s, a scenario that National`s Collins warned would mean more taxes and an environment hostile to business. Ardern has pledged to raise taxes on top earners, while Collins promised short-term tax cuts, but they have otherwise shown few major differences on policy. The prime minister won global acclaim for her handling of a mass shooting last year by a white supremacist in Christchurch, with her inclusive "be strong, be kind" mantra and swift action to ban guns. She burnished that reputation this year with a "go hard, go early" approach to the new coronavirus, which has eliminated locally spread COVID-19 in the nation. The election was delayed by a month after new COVID-19 infections in Auckland, that led to a second lockdown in the country's largest city. New Zealanders also voted on Saturday in referendums to legalise euthanasia and recreational marijuana, with results to be announced on October 30. The latter vote could make New Zealand only the third country in the world to allow the adult use and sale of cannabis nationwide, after Uruguay and Canada.

Jacinda Ardern wins landslide re-election in New Zealand vote; opposition concedes

Just days ahead of the general elections, Facebook announced it was shutting down Advance New Zealand party's page over allegedly spreading misinformation about coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-fumes-as-facebook-twitter-limit-reach-of-smoking-gun-article-on-biden-and-his-son-335344">Also Read:&nbsp;Trump fumes as Facebook, Twitter limit reach of 'smoking gun' article on Biden and his son</a>

Billy Te Kahika co-leader of Advance New Zealand said that Facebook have now officially interfered with the New Zealand 2020 elections.

However, Facebook said it will enforce the ban "regardless of anyone's political position or party affiliation". 
&nbsp; 
"We removed Advance New Zealand/New Zealand Public Party's Facebook Page for repeated violations" of misinformation policies," the social media giant said.

The elections in the country is due to take place on October 17 with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern widely expected to win a second term. Opinion polls suggest Ardern's party may get the numbers to govern alone, however, the elections could show some surprises.

In order to get any seat in Parliament, a party must win at least 5% of the party vote, or win an electorate seat.

Ardern's Labour party has been fighting the coronavirus pandemic as the country removed all coronavirus restrictions last week after a second lockdown.

Kahika accused PM &nbsp;Ardern for being behind the Facebook ban.

"This is not North Korea, this is not China, but the way this government's behaving you'd think it is," Kahika said.

Just days ahead of the general elections, Facebook announced it was shutting down Advance New Zealand party's page over allegedly spreading misinformation about coronavirus.

Just days ahead of the general elections, Facebook announced it was shutting down Advance New Zealand party's page over allegedly spreading misinformation about coronavirus. Also Read: Trump fumes as Facebook, Twitter limit reach of 'smoking gun' article on Biden and his son Billy Te Kahika co-leader of Advance New Zealand said that Facebook have now officially interfered with the New Zealand 2020 elections. However, Facebook said it will enforce the ban "regardless of anyone's political position or party affiliation". "We removed Advance New Zealand/New Zealand Public Party's Facebook Page for repeated violations" of misinformation policies," the social media giant said. The elections in the country is due to take place on October 17 with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern widely expected to win a second term. Opinion polls suggest Ardern's party may get the numbers to govern alone, however, the elections could show some surprises. In order to get any seat in Parliament, a party must win at least 5% of the party vote, or win an electorate seat. Ardern's Labour party has been fighting the coronavirus pandemic as the country removed all coronavirus restrictions last week after a second lockdown. Kahika accused PM Ardern for being behind the Facebook ban. "This is not North Korea, this is not China, but the way this government's behaving you'd think it is," Kahika said.

Ahead of polls, Facebook shuts New Zealand party's page over 'misinformation'

The bookies are placing their bets on New Zealand's PM Jacinda Ardern for this year's Nobel Peace Prize, a report claimed.&nbsp;

A report by NZ Herald said most of the bookmakers have kept Ardern in the top three candidates with climate activist Greta Thunberg and the World Health Organization.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-louise-gluck-wins-nobel-prize-in-literature-333470#:~:text=American%20poet%20Louise%20Gl%C3%BCck%20has,beauty%20makes%20individual%20existence%20universal.%E2%80%9D">American Louise Glück wins Nobel Prize in Literature&nbsp;</a>&nbsp; &nbsp; 
 
The New Zealand prime minister, who is nominated for her work post deadly Christchurch shootings and during coronavirus pandemic, is in a three-point lead over other two leading candidates, the report said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emmanuelle-charpentier-jennifer-a-doudna-win-nobel-prize-in-chemistry-333141#:~:text=Emmanuelle%20Charpentier%20and%20Jennifer%20A,Prize%20in%20Chemistry%20on%20Wednesday.&amp;text=C%20virus%20discovery-,The%20Nobel%20Committee%20said%20they%20were%20given%20the%20award%20for,CRISPR%2FCas9%20genetic%20scissors.%22">Emmanuelle Charpentier &amp; Jennifer A. Doudna win Nobel Prize in Chemistry</a>

Ardern was nominated last year too, but the prestigious prize was conferred upon Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for his contribution to settle the conflict with neighbouring Eritrea.

Meanwhile, various polls have shown that Ardern is poised to win the October 17 general election and getting Peace Prize would be a big election boost for the 40-year-old prime minister.&nbsp;

An opinion poll by TVNZ/Colmar Brunton has found that Ardern's centre-left Labour Party has a support of 48 per cent, well short of the record 59 per cent it received in mid-May, but enough to retain her seat with the support from other smaller parties.&nbsp;

In terms of choice as preferred PM, Ardern led the list with 54 per cent support and far more than her closest rival who had a backing of 18 per cent in the poll conducted in late July.&nbsp;

The bookies are placing their bets on New Zealand's PM Jacinda Ardern for this year's Nobel Peace Prize, a report claimed. A report by NZ Herald said most of the bookmakers have kept Ardern in the top three candidates with climate activist Greta Thunberg and the World Health Organization.

The bookies are placing their bets on New Zealand's PM Jacinda Ardern for this year's Nobel Peace Prize, a report claimed. A report by NZ Herald said most of the bookmakers have kept Ardern in the top three candidates with climate activist Greta Thunberg and the World Health Organization. Also read | American Louise Glück wins Nobel Prize in Literature The New Zealand prime minister, who is nominated for her work post deadly Christchurch shootings and during coronavirus pandemic, is in a three-point lead over other two leading candidates, the report said. Also read | Emmanuelle Charpentier & Jennifer A. Doudna win Nobel Prize in Chemistry Ardern was nominated last year too, but the prestigious prize was conferred upon Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for his contribution to settle the conflict with neighbouring Eritrea. Meanwhile, various polls have shown that Ardern is poised to win the October 17 general election and getting Peace Prize would be a big election boost for the 40-year-old prime minister. An opinion poll by TVNZ/Colmar Brunton has found that Ardern's centre-left Labour Party has a support of 48 per cent, well short of the record 59 per cent it received in mid-May, but enough to retain her seat with the support from other smaller parties. In terms of choice as preferred PM, Ardern led the list with 54 per cent support and far more than her closest rival who had a backing of 18 per cent in the poll conducted in late July.

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern is bookies favourite to win Nobel Peace Prize

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declared on Monday New Zealand "beat the virus again" and announced restrictions in the country's largest city would be eased after a second Covid-19 wave was contained.

New Zealand beat the Coronavirus again, claims PM Jacinda Ardern

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declared on Monday New Zealand "beat the virus again" and announced restrictions in the country's largest city would be eased, after a second Covid-19 wave was contained.

The virus was believed to have been eradicated in late May after a strict national lockdown led to New Zealanders enjoying 102 days without community transmission.&nbsp;

But a new cluster emerged in Auckland in August, forcing the city of 1.5 million into lockdown for almost three weeks.

With no new confirmed cases in Auckland for 12 days, Ardern said Monday the virus was now under control and congratulated residents for enduring the second lockdown.

"It felt longer and dragged on in what was already starting to feel like a very long year," she said.

"But despite this, Aucklanders and New Zealanders stuck to the plan that has worked twice now, and beat the virus again."&nbsp;

Ardern said from late Wednesday Auckland would join the rest of New Zealand on level one, the lowest rating on the government's four-tier virus alert system.&nbsp;

Under the change, there are no restrictions on social gatherings, allowing the second Bledisloe Cup Test in Auckland on October 18 to be played in front of a full stadium at Eden Park.&nbsp;

"This is positive news that (Auckland fans) will be able to enjoy Test match rugby," New Zealand Rugby said in a statement.&nbsp;

New Zealand has recorded just 25 Covid-19 deaths in a population of five million, with 40 active cases in the country on Monday.&nbsp;

But Ardern, who faces a general election on October 17, warned success could not be taken for granted.

She pointed to a decline in the use of the official Covid-19 tracing app and falling virus test numbers.

"A resurgence of the virus is not our only worry, resurgence of complacency is right up there too," Ardern said.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declared on Monday New Zealand "beat the virus again" and announced restrictions in the country's largest city would be eased, after a second Covid-19 wave was contained.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declared on Monday New Zealand "beat the virus again" and announced restrictions in the country's largest city would be eased, after a second Covid-19 wave was contained. The virus was believed to have been eradicated in late May after a strict national lockdown led to New Zealanders enjoying 102 days without community transmission. But a new cluster emerged in Auckland in August, forcing the city of 1.5 million into lockdown for almost three weeks. With no new confirmed cases in Auckland for 12 days, Ardern said Monday the virus was now under control and congratulated residents for enduring the second lockdown. "It felt longer and dragged on in what was already starting to feel like a very long year," she said. "But despite this, Aucklanders and New Zealanders stuck to the plan that has worked twice now, and beat the virus again." Ardern said from late Wednesday Auckland would join the rest of New Zealand on level one, the lowest rating on the government's four-tier virus alert system. Under the change, there are no restrictions on social gatherings, allowing the second Bledisloe Cup Test in Auckland on October 18 to be played in front of a full stadium at Eden Park. "This is positive news that (Auckland fans) will be able to enjoy Test match rugby," New Zealand Rugby said in a statement. New Zealand has recorded just 25 Covid-19 deaths in a population of five million, with 40 active cases in the country on Monday. But Ardern, who faces a general election on October 17, warned success could not be taken for granted. She pointed to a decline in the use of the official Covid-19 tracing app and falling virus test numbers. "A resurgence of the virus is not our only worry, resurgence of complacency is right up there too," Ardern said.

New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern says 'we beat the virus again'

New Zealand's ruling Labour Party promised to deliver more homes and replace a 30-year-old law blamed for high housing costs and impeding urban development, as it looked to tackle a hot election issue ahead of early voting starting on Saturday.

Labour would replace the Resource Management Act (RMA), and continue its plan to deliver more than 18,000 public houses by 2024, party leader and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a policy announcement on Friday.

“Overly restrictive planning rules are one of the causes of high house prices," Ardern said, adding she was determined to remove unnecessary barriers to the supply of land and infrastructure for housing.

New Zealand's house prices have soared nearly 90 per cent over the past decade, analysts have said, due to an acute housing shortage of over a 100,000 homes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jacinda-ardern-admits-to-past-cannabis-use-during-new-zealand-election-debate-331661">Also read:&nbsp;Jacinda Ardern admits to past cannabis use during New Zealand election debate</a>

Successive governments have failed to ease the red tape around land approval, making land artificially scarce. For private developers the costs and consent process are significant hurdles, making properties unaffordable.

Ardern's flagship affordable housing project KiwiBuild also faltered and to date has just built about 600 homes, with nearly 1,000 under construction.

The housing crisis is creating a policy headache for Ardern as she seeks a second three-year term in the October 17 polls.

Opinion polls suggest she is on track for a comfortable win, although the opposition National Party has been clawing back support.

Early voting for the election starts on Saturday.

Ardern also said the party would support first home buyers with loans and introduce regulations for property management services.

The party said it would bring up its core recommendations in the next parliamentary term if elected.

The opposition National Party has said the state housing waiting list has risen under Ardern, and claims it has a plan to deliver cheap homes faster.

New Zealand's ruling Labour Party promised to deliver more homes and replace a 30-year-old law blamed for high housing costs and impeding urban development, as it looked to tackle a hot election issue ahead of early voting starting on Saturday.

New Zealand's ruling Labour Party promised to deliver more homes and replace a 30-year-old law blamed for high housing costs and impeding urban development, as it looked to tackle a hot election issue ahead of early voting starting on Saturday. Labour would replace the Resource Management Act (RMA), and continue its plan to deliver more than 18,000 public houses by 2024, party leader and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a policy announcement on Friday. “Overly restrictive planning rules are one of the causes of high house prices," Ardern said, adding she was determined to remove unnecessary barriers to the supply of land and infrastructure for housing. New Zealand's house prices have soared nearly 90 per cent over the past decade, analysts have said, due to an acute housing shortage of over a 100,000 homes. Also read: Jacinda Ardern admits to past cannabis use during New Zealand election debate Successive governments have failed to ease the red tape around land approval, making land artificially scarce. For private developers the costs and consent process are significant hurdles, making properties unaffordable. Ardern's flagship affordable housing project KiwiBuild also faltered and to date has just built about 600 homes, with nearly 1,000 under construction. The housing crisis is creating a policy headache for Ardern as she seeks a second three-year term in the October 17 polls. Opinion polls suggest she is on track for a comfortable win, although the opposition National Party has been clawing back support. Early voting for the election starts on Saturday. Ardern also said the party would support first home buyers with loans and introduce regulations for property management services. The party said it would bring up its core recommendations in the next parliamentary term if elected. The opposition National Party has said the state housing waiting list has risen under Ardern, and claims it has a plan to deliver cheap homes faster.

New Zealand's Ardern takes on housing crisis issue ahead of early voting

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s Labour Party could rule the country after the upcoming election, based on the findings of a poll by Newshub-Reid Research.

A Newshub-Reid Research Poll released on Sunday showed support for Ardern's Labour Party at to 50.1%, though this is down from the record 60.9% recorded earlier this year when New Zealand was widely lauded as a world leader in battling COVID-19.

The survey showed Labour’s coalition partner, New Zealand First, with just 1.9%, below the minimum required to return to parliament. The research was conducted September 16 to 23 and had a margin of error of 3.1%, according to Newshub Reid.

Ardern remains the preferred Prime Minister for 53.2 per cent of those surveyed (down 8.8 percentage points). Collins' popularity has risen by 3.1 percentage points to 17.7 per cent in the preferred PM stakes.

Ardern, 40, also holds huge global appeal due to her response to last year’s attack by a white supremacist on two mosques, a fatal volcanic eruption and her success with the COVID-19 outbreak.

(With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s Labour Party could rule the country after the upcoming election, based on the findings of a poll by Newshub-Reid Research.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s Labour Party could rule the country after the upcoming election, based on the findings of a poll by Newshub-Reid Research. A Newshub-Reid Research Poll released on Sunday showed support for Ardern's Labour Party at to 50.1%, though this is down from the record 60.9% recorded earlier this year when New Zealand was widely lauded as a world leader in battling COVID-19. The survey showed Labour’s coalition partner, New Zealand First, with just 1.9%, below the minimum required to return to parliament. The research was conducted September 16 to 23 and had a margin of error of 3.1%, according to Newshub Reid. Ardern remains the preferred Prime Minister for 53.2 per cent of those surveyed (down 8.8 percentage points). Collins' popularity has risen by 3.1 percentage points to 17.7 per cent in the preferred PM stakes. Ardern, 40, also holds huge global appeal due to her response to last year’s attack by a white supremacist on two mosques, a fatal volcanic eruption and her success with the COVID-19 outbreak. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on course for election victory: Poll

jacinda-ardern

Jacinda Ardern, News on Jacinda Ardern, stories on Jacinda Ardern, articles on Jacinda Ardern, Jacinda Ardern stories at Wion, Jacinda Ardern news, Jacinda Ardern latest news

jacinda ardern