Jacinda Ardern has tested positive to Covid – days after announcing New Zealand would finally open up to the rest of the world.
The NZ Prime Minister announced she’d been struck down with the virus on Saturday, after her fiancé Clarke Gayford and daughter Neve both already tested positive.
Her positive result means Ms Adern will be unable to attend Parliament on Monday for the government’s emissions reduction plan as well as the budget on Thursday.
‘I’m gutted to miss being there in person, but will be staying in close touch with the team and sharing some reckons from here,’ she said.
Despite best efforts, unfortunately I’ve joined the rest of my family and have tested positive for COVID 19.’
Her office said she was experiencing moderate symptoms while travel for her trade mission in the United States is still set to go ahead.
Ms Ardern had been in isolation since Sunday, after Mr Gayford tested positive and on Wednesday her daughter Neve also recorded a positive result.
The PM will now have to lead the country from the comfort of her own home until the morning of May 21.
Deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson will step in to address the media on Monday in her absence.
‘This is a milestone week for the Government and I’m gutted I can’t be there for it,’ Ms Ardern said.
‘Our emissions reduction plan sets the path to achieve our carbon zero goal and the budget addresses the long-term future and security of New Zealand’s health system,’
‘But as I said earlier in the week isolating with COVID-19 is a very kiwi experience this year and my family is no different.’