Former New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern given Country's Top Honor for Service During Shooting, Pandemic

Former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has been bestowed with one of New Zealand’s highest awards for her services in leading the country through difficult situations including a mass shooting and Covid-19 pandemic.

Jacinda was born as part of King Charles III’s birthday ceremonies. Made a Dame Grand Companion, the second highest honor in New Zealand. She will now be referred to as Dame Jacinda. The Prime Minister chooses the Royal guests of honor twice a year in New Zealand. It is signed by Charles, the British King, who is also recognized as the King of New Zealand.

Jacinda was 37 when she was chosen as New Zealand’s prime minister in 2017 and was considered a global icon of the left and an inspiration for women.

Her sudden announcement in January about stepping down as Prime Minister shocked New Zealanders after serving for more than five years as leader. She said that she no longer had “enough in the tank” to do justice to the cause.

Jacinda had to deal with immense political pressure at home, including over her handling of COVID-19 crisis. Her approach was widely praised but was later criticized by opponents of mandates and rules.

“Leading New Zealand’s response to the 2019 terrorist attacks and to the COVID-19 pandemic has presented a challenging time for our 40th Prime Minister, during which I have seen first-hand that her commitment to New Zealand absolutely remains,” Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said in a statement.

Jacinda stated that she was not sure about accepting the award since the many things she was being recognized for were shared experiences of all New Zealanders.

“So for me, it’s about my family, my colleagues and everyone who has supported me in this incredibly rewarding work,” she told 1News.