Former PM Jacinda Ardern spotted in coffee catch-up with Matildas star

Former New Zealand Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern has been spotted in a casual coffee meet-up with Australian soccer player Alanna Kennedy, in an unexpected crossover moment that circulated online.

The picture posted to Kennedy’s Snapchat page shows the two smiling as they share a morning coffee together.

Advertisement
    
    This ad is not available right now due to a network issue or pending review with the Google Advertisement Network. Please check back later.
  
    Advertisement
    Why this ad?
      
        Advertising revenue keeps articles from thisquality free to read. Ads are personalised by Google, not us. Thank you for your support! 🎉

Ardern led New Zealand from 2017 to 2023, becoming one of the country’s most internationally recognised and well-respected leaders. Her tenure was defined by high-profile crises, including the Christchurch mosque attacks, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Whakaari White Island eruption. She stepped down citing the demands of the role, saying she no longer had “enough in the tank” to continue.

Since leaving office, Ardern has shifted focus to global leadership initiatives and writing. She is the author of A Different Kind of Power, offering insight into her time in office and leadership style.

Kennedy, who Ardern was seen with, is a member of the Australia women’s national soccer team. The experienced centre-back has represented her country more than 100 times and also plays club football in Europe and the United States.

The moment has nonetheless sparked public interest, linking two prominent figures from politics and international sport in an relaxed setting.

Advertisement
    
    This ad is not available right now due to a network issue or pending review with the Google Advertisement Network. Please check back later.
  
    Advertisement
    Why this ad?
      
        Advertising revenue keeps articles from thisquality free to read. Ads are personalised by Google, not us. Thank you for your support! 🎉

Support Brief Banner

Keep independent journalism going.

We are independent and committed to bringing authentic reporting to the people.

thisquality is built for the people and powered by their support. People like you reading this free article help us remain a strong and independent platform within New Zealand's media landscape.

I'd like to donate

About thisquality

Advertisement

Advertisement Why this ad? Advertising revenue keeps articles from thisquality free to read. Ads are personalised by Google, not us. Thank you for your support! 🎉