Wonder Woman! PM Jacinda's Amazing Journey

Our excited new leader proves anything is possible

- Sophie Neville

Just six weeks ago, as she mounted the political campaign of a lifetime, Jacinda Ardern told us that 2017 had shaped up to be “unbelievable and totally exceptional”.

In the space of a few short months, the passionate 37-year-old from Morrinsville rose from list MP to leader of the Labour Party and sparked a political frenzy like none other as she steered the embattled party back into serious contention. Jacinda-mania was born.

But her astonishing year took the ultimate turn on Thursday last week, when she became the 40th Prime Minister of New Zealand – and the third ever woman to lead our country.

Speaking to Woman’s Day just 12 hours after her amazing victory, she says, “There are no words for it now – it will be the most extraordinary period of my life. But I am hoping the period that I’m most proud of is yet to come. I’ve spent nine years preparing for the chance and opportunity to do something meaningful and constructive. You spend a lot of time making plans and now’s the time to make it a reality. And that’s exciting.”

While many commentators and Kiwis alike were shocked by New Zealand First leader Winston Peter’s decision to join with Labour and the Green Party in coalition, ending National’s nine years in power, Jacinda isn’t feeling any nerves.

Calm and confident at the mammoth task ahead, the passionate politician – whose sole reason for joining the Labour Party at 17 was to tackle child poverty – is determined to use her position to make a real difference.