Key Takeaways
- Dame Jacinda Ardern and her family have relocated to Sydney’s northern beaches with no fixed timeline for returning to New Zealand.
- The move was motivated by a desire to be nearer to friends and family while enjoying a lifestyle similar to that in New Zealand, especially proximity to the ocean.
- Ardern praises Sydney’s beauty but maintains that New Zealand remains “the best place on Earth” in her view.
- She enjoys local wildlife, particularly the louder birds, and notes her husband’s happiness living by the sea.
- On arrival cards she humorously lists occupations ranging from “former PM” to “writer,” joking that “washed‑up politician” would fit if more space were allowed.
- Ardern openly criticizes former U.S. President Donald Trump’s politics and leadership style, stating she has “no qualms” voicing her opposition.
- She warns that threats to democracy extend beyond any single leader, citing a global decline in trust in political institutions.
- Ardern reiterates her support for implementing a capital gains tax in New Zealand as a policy priority.
- She contributed privately to the second phase of New Zealand’s Covid‑19 inquiry and has recently released her memoir A Different Kind of Power and a accompanying Netflix documentary.
- Embracing a flexible outlook, the Ardern‑Gayford family says they are “just taking life as it comes” and have no set five‑year plan.
Relocation to Sydney and Lifestyle Approach
Former prime minister Dame Jacinda Ardern revealed that she, her partner Clarke Gayford, and their daughter Neve have settled on Sydney’s northern beaches after spending time in the United States and the United Kingdom since leaving office in early 2023. Emphasizing a laid‑back attitude, Ardern said the family is “just taking life as it comes” and has not established any definite plans to return to New Zealand soon. This approach reflects a conscious choice to prioritize present experiences over rigid long‑term scheduling.
Motivations Behind the Move
When asked why Sydney was chosen, Ardern highlighted the city’s proximity to home as a primary factor. She explained that after being abroad for an extended period, the family wanted to be closer to friends and relatives while still enjoying a lifestyle reminiscent of what they had in New Zealand. The allure of coastal living—particularly the ocean—played a significant role in their decision, offering a familiar yet refreshing environment.
Comparative Affection for Sydney and New Zealand
Although Ardern described Sydney as “a beautiful city,” she was quick to add a caveat: “New Zealand will always be the best place on Earth in my eyes.” This statement underscores her enduring patriotism while acknowledging the appeal of Sydney’s scenery and lifestyle. She noted that each time she lands at Sydney Airport, she cannot help but admire the city’s aesthetic, even as her heart remains rooted in New Zealand.
Family Enjoyments and Connection to Nature
Living by the ocean has been a major drawcard for the family, especially because it aligns with Clarke Gayford’s happiest moments. Ardern shared that their daughter Neve delights in being nearer to wildlife, and she personally enjoys the local birdlife. She humorously observed that while New Zealand boasts many birds, Sydney’s avian residents are “just much quieter” than theirs, adding a light‑hearted note to her appreciation of the area’s natural offerings.
How She Describes Her Occupation
On arrival cards, Ardern said she often pauses when asked to state her occupation. She noted that titles like “former PM” or “speaker” do not fully capture her current activities, and she sometimes writes “writer.” In a joking tone, she remarked that if there were more space, she would list “washed‑up politician,” reflecting her candid and self‑aware approach to life after public office.
Opposition to Donald Trump’s Leadership
Ardern did not shy away from criticizing former U.S. President Donald Trump, declaring that she “strongly disagree[s] with his politics, and I disagree with his style of leadership, and I have no qualms saying that.” Her frank condemnation illustrates her willingness to voice dissent against political figures whose values clash with her own, even while recognizing the broader complexities of international politics.
Global Democratic Challenges
Beyond individual leaders, Ardern warned that the challenges facing democracy are systemic. She pointed to a worldwide trend of declining trust in political institutions, suggesting that restoring confidence requires more than merely opposing a single politician. This perspective highlights her concern for the health of democratic societies globally and the need for structural reforms to rebuild public faith.
Advocacy for Capital Gains Tax Reform
Reiterating a long‑held policy stance, Ardern expressed continued support for implementing a capital gains tax in New Zealand. She argued that such a measure would address inequities in the tax system and contribute to a fairer economic landscape. Her endorsement signals that, despite her departure from office, she remains engaged in shaping fiscal policy debates domestically.
Engagement with Covid‑19 Inquiry and Recent Publications
Earlier this year, Ardern provided private evidence to the second phase of New Zealand’s Covid‑19 inquiry alongside former colleague Chris Hipkins. Following her premiership, she released her memoir A Different Kind of Power and an accompanying Netflix documentary titled Prime Minister. These works offer reflections on her time in office and her broader vision for leadership, allowing the public to engage with her perspectives beyond the political arena.
Outlook and Philosophy on Life
Summing up her current mindset, Ardern emphasized that she and her family are embracing flexibility, taking life as it comes without adhering to strict five‑year plans. This philosophy underpins their Sydney stint, their enjoyment of coastal life, and their ongoing involvement in public discourse through writing, speaking, and advocacy. By balancing personal fulfillment with a commitment to societal issues, Ardern illustrates a post‑premiership path that remains both purposeful and adaptable.