By John Q. Hosedrinker 
The former New Zealand Prime Minister, Dame Jacinda Ardern, is reportedly establishing a base in Australia with her family. Reports indicate she and her husband have been house hunting in Sydney’s northern beaches, and a spokesperson confirmed they are currently basing themselves in Australia due to work opportunities. This move follows a period of international engagements, including work with Harvard University and her role as a trustee for Prince William’s Earthshot Prize.
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It seems former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is making a significant personal move, relocating to Australia. This news, while perhaps surprising to some, actually fits a rather well-established pattern, both for New Zealanders in general and for leaders after their time in office. The connection between New Zealand and Australia is particularly strong, with an agreement akin to EU laws allowing citizens of one country to live and work in the other. Historically, Australia has often presented a more robust job market, drawing many New Zealanders across the Tasman Sea in pursuit of better career opportunities. So, from that perspective, Jacinda Ardern’s move isn’t entirely unexpected, especially considering New Zealanders’ propensity for international migration.
What might be catching people off guard is the notion that a former Prime Minister would uproot and move, especially after holding such a prominent position. However, looking at it through a wider lens, it’s not an uncommon occurrence for world leaders to emigrate after their political careers conclude. Names like Julia Gillard from Australia, Ernesto Zedillo of Mexico, and Ferdinand Marcos of the Philippines are cited as examples of leaders who have transitioned to life abroad after leaving public service. It suggests that once the demands of leading a nation are over, a desire for a different chapter, perhaps one with new professional avenues or simply a change of pace, becomes a strong motivator.
The context surrounding New Zealand’s current situation also offers some insight into why such a move might be appealing. There’s a growing sentiment that New Zealand is facing economic and housing challenges, a stark contrast to its reputation during the COVID-19 pandemic when it was often lauded as an exceptional place to live. This shift has undoubtedly created a push factor for many, leading to a noticeable outflow of people seeking greater stability and opportunity elsewhere, and Australia remains a primary destination. It highlights a broader trend of young people leaving New Zealand at concerning rates, prompting concerns about the future makeup of the country’s population.
Furthermore, the personal circumstances of a former leader should be considered. Jacinda Ardern, like any individual, has the freedom to make choices about where she wishes to live and work. The intensity of scrutiny and, unfortunately, the threats she faced during and after her time in office, particularly during the COVID-19 era, could certainly make the prospect of living in a place perceived as more peaceful and less confrontational a desirable one. The idea that she might be seeking an environment conducive to her future endeavors, away from the intense political spotlight and potential hostility, makes a lot of sense.
The notion of politicians leaving the country they led can, for some, raise questions about their commitment and the condition they left the nation in. The sentiment arises that perhaps a leader should remain to witness or even partake in the fruits of their policies. However, it’s also important to acknowledge that political careers have finite endpoints. After dedicating years to public service, individuals are entitled to pursue new paths and personal goals. The location of these future pursuits, whether it’s for professional development or personal fulfillment, doesn’t necessarily diminish their past contributions.
The economic realities of both New Zealand and Australia play a significant role in this migration pattern. While some might perceive Australia as expensive, the perceived advantages in terms of job markets and career progression often outweigh these concerns for many New Zealanders. It’s a complex interplay of economic factors, personal aspirations, and the inherent freedoms of movement that exist between the two nations. The fact that even a former Prime Minister is making this move could be seen by some as an anecdotal endorsement of Australia as a place for opportunity, mirroring the decisions of many ordinary New Zealanders.
Ultimately, Jacinda Ardern’s move to Australia is a personal decision, influenced by a confluence of factors including strong trans-Tasman migration ties, Australia’s often more dynamic economy, and potentially a desire for a different professional or personal landscape after a demanding political career. While some may view it with skepticism or concern, it also reflects the natural ebb and flow of people seeking opportunities and a comfortable life, a phenomenon that transcends political roles and affects individuals from all walks of life. It’s a story that, at its core, speaks to the universal human desire for growth, change, and a sense of belonging, wherever that may be found.