Speaking this afternoon, Ardern said she reflected over the summer and tried to find a way to keep going for another year and another term but she could not.
"After going on six years of some big challenges, I am human. Politicians are human. For me, it's time...
"So today I'm announcing that I will not be seeking re-election and my term as prime minister will conclude no later than the 7th of February.
"I believe that leading a country is the most privileged job anyone could ever have but also one of the more challenging. You cannot and should not do it unless you have a full tank plus a bit in reserve for those unexpected challenges."
And with that, her legacy is set. 2 terms, unopposed. Which for a modern day leader on this side of the planet is, in fairness, quite the feat.