Jacinda Ardern had been on maternity leave after the birth of Neve, becoming only the second elected world leader in modern times to have a baby while in office.
As she prepared to go back to work in the capital, Wellington, she said caring for Neve’s most basic needs helped her to realise why so many parents with young children struggle to find time for politics. When she is back in the office, her partner Clarke Gayford will take the role of primary caregiver.
Ardern became her party’s youngest leader almost a year to the day ago, and New Zealand’s youngest in 150 years. It marked the first victory for the Labour Party in nine years. She led the group for three months before being elected Prime Minister.
