New Zealand Prime Minster Jacinda Ardern has been widely praised for her thoughtful response to the Christchurch mosque shootings which claimed the lives of 50 people last month.
Now her compassionate side has been on display again after she paid for the groceries of a woman who had forgotten to bring her wallet to the supermarket .
The kind gesture came to light after the mum-of-two took to Facebook to express her gratitude for Arden's generosity at the Countdown store in Ponsonby, central Auckland, last week.
She wrote: "Just when you think Jacinda Ardern couldn't get any more lovely, low key and authentic.... she goes and pays for your groceries at the supermarket, because you've got your shopping, have two kids with you and are about to put it all back as you forgot your wallet".
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The mum also said she she tried to explain the extraordinary incident to her children, much to their bemusment.
She said: "All they cared about was how silly mummy was forgetting her wallet. Totally lost on them."
The post has since been deleted from Facebook but drew the attention of the country's media.
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In a press conference, Ardern confirmed to journalists that the incident did happen and said she forked out for the woman's shopping "because she was a mum".
The move was just the latest act of kindness from the Labour Party leader.
Praise for the 38-year-old, who has been in office for nearly 18 months, has been unanimous as she promised to cover funeral costs, provide financial support for families affected by the Christchurch tragedy.
Cristina Nicolotti, Sky News’ director of content, tweeted: “I’ve been incredibly impressed with the compassion, composure and determination shown by Jacinda Ardern in this dreadful crisis.
“UK politicians take note.”
Sharon Thompson, Labour councillor of North Edgbaston, said the New Zealand PM “has shown the world what true leadership can look like.
“Empathy, understanding, action and unity - I applaud this woman for her compassion and not being afraid to lead NZ with real love.”
