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Jacinda Ardern, New Zealand’s former Prime Minister, and her longtime partner Clarke Gayford tied the knot in a private ceremony on Saturday.
The couple had previously canceled wedding plans due to strict COVID-19 controls Ardern imposed on the country, reflecting her commitment to pandemic management.
Engagement and Initial Wedding Plans:
Ardern, 43, and Gayford, 47, engaged in May 2019 and originally planned to marry in early 2022. However, the ceremony was postponed due to Ardern’s proactive pandemic response, known as the “go hard, go early” approach, which effectively controlled the spread of the virus in New Zealand.
Global Icon of Left-Leaning Politics and Women in Leadership:
Jacinda Ardern served as the Prime Minister of New Zealand from 2017 to January 2023, gaining global recognition as a symbol of left-leaning politics and women in leadership.
She became known for her compassionate and effective governance, notably bringing her daughter to a United Nations meeting.
The private wedding took place at Craggy Range Winery in Hawke’s Bay on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. Official photos showed Ardern in a white halter-neck dress and Gayford in a black suit.
Approximately 50 to 75 guests attended the intimate ceremony in the picturesque region known for its wineries and horticulture.
Ar dern’s Final Speech in Parliament:
According to reports, guests included Ardern’s successor as Prime Minister, Chris Hipkins, and the current opposition leader, adding a diverse touch to the celebration.
Jacinda Ardern has been engaged in three fellowships at Harvard University in the past six months.
She continues to play a significant role as a trustee of Prince William’s Earthshot Prize and as a special envoy for the Christchurch Call, a network focused on eliminating terrorist and violent extremist content online.
The initiative was established in the wake of a tragic mosque massacre, and Ardern’s compassionate response garnered international acclaim.
During her final speech in parliament, Ardern expressed her desire to marry Gayford, saying, “Let’s finally get married.” The couple’s daughter, Neve, is five years old.
