New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern quits politics

Jacinda Ardern has been branded by some as the "COVID lockdown queen" as she quit politics on Thursday.

The New Zealand Prime Minister made the announcement in her first appearance of 2023 after her summer break.

The COVID-19 pandemic featured heavily during Ardern's time as PM after she assumed the role in August 2017, and some criticised her government's elimination strategy during the first wave of the virus.

Comedian and political commentator Tim Young referenced Ardern's COVID stance in a Tweet following her announcement.

"The New Zealand Prime Minister, also the world's foremost COVID lockdown queen, Jacinda Ardern just resigned," he wrote.

United Australia Party's Craig Kelly accused the New Zealand PM of abusing human rights.

"Ardern relentlessly abused human rights with lockdowns and mandates based on a lie," he wrote.

Many, including Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, praised Ardern for her work.

"Jacinda Ardern has shown the world how to lead with intellect and strength. She has demonstrated that empathy and insight are powerful leadership qualities," he wrote on Twitter.

"Jacinda has been a fierce advocate for New Zealand, an inspiration to so many and a great friend to me."

IN OTHER NEWS

In a separate Tweet Mr Albanese wrote "I look forward to working with the next prime minister of New Zealand and I wish Jacinda Ardern and her family well in the next chapter of their lives."

Leader of the opposition of New Zealand, Christopher Luxon, thanked the outgoing PM for her service.

"She has given her all to this incredibly demanding job and I wish her and her family all the very best for the future," he said.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau thanked Ardern for her partnership, friendship and her "empathic, compassionate, strong, and steady leadership".

"The difference you have made is immeasurable. I'm wishing you and your family nothing but the best, my friend," he posted to Twitter.

Former South Australian Premier Mike Rann posted that Ardern showed the world that a "small country could be a leader internationally; a leader in decency and in building bridges between people, cultures and religions at home and abroad".

"She also deserves enormous credit for her government's management of the COVID-19 crisis," he wrote.

New Zealand church minister Reverend Frank Ritchie had praise for the PM's work.

"Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, thank you for your years of service during some very hard times. You have my appreciation, and the appreciation of many others," he posted to social media.

New Zealand woman Fleur Fitzsimons Tweeted that history will judge Jacinda Ardern as a remarkable leader.

"She is genuinely kind and has an incredible intellect, she's made more of a contribution than she will ever appreciate," she wrote on Twitter.

"I can't help but feel like we need to find better ways to support women and mothers in politics."

New Zealand's minster for internal affairs, Jan Tinetti said Ardern was an "incredible boss" and a huge support.

"I will never, ever forget the support and 'aroha' she gave to me when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Jacinda is a great leader, the hardest-working person I have ever met," she said.