Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Jacinda Ardern on Wednesday morning arrived at Government House to formally resign as prime minister, exiting Parliament to an adoring crowd of onlookers.
She was greeted on Parliament's steps by fellow Cabinet ministers, MPs, staff and onlookers, who she greeted with emotional farewells.
Her formal resignation was confirmed by the Governor-General who then swore in her replacement, Chris Hipkins.
The Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate, have also paid tribute to Ardern's leadership on Twitter.
Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Jacinda Ardern exits Parliament for the final time as prime minister of New Zealand, greeted by fellow MPs, staff and onlookers. Photo: RNZ / Jane Patterson
Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Jacinda Ardern says goodbye to supporters on her last day as prime minister. Photo: RNZ / Craig McCulloch
Jacinda Ardern says goodbye to supporters on her last day as prime minister. Photo: RNZ / Craig McCulloch
Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Jacinda Ardern exits Parliament for the final time as prime minister of New Zealand, greeted by fellow MPs, staff and onlookers. Photo: RNZ / Jane Patterson
Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Photo: RNZ