Jacinda Ardern honored as Dame

Today, wearing a Ngāti Rānana kākahu, former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was officially made a Dame in a special ceremony held at Windsor Castle in London.

Today, wearing a Ngāti Rānana kākahu, former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was officially made a Dame in a special ceremony held at Windsor Castle in London.

Prince William presented the honour to Ardern, recognizing her appointment to the Royal Order with the King’s Excellence Award, which she received last year for her contributions to New Zealand’s government.

This honour followed her unexpected resignation as Prime Minister.

Ardern says she feels deeply thankful to her family and supporters who have stood by her over the years.

She says this award is a testament to the collective effort of her colleagues and all those who supported her work during her time in office.

The ceremony was a proud moment for Ardern and her whānau, who accompanied her, along with Whaea Esther Jessop of Ngāi Tai, a respected kuia of the London Māori club Ngāti Rānana.

With their support, Ardern wore one of the club’s ceremonial cloaks, which added a special touch of Māori culture and tradition to the occasion.