Friedrich said she understood a lot of people were happy about the resignation back in her home nation but feared they did not understand the full extent of the situation.
"The wool has been pulled over their eyes... He (Mugabe) is only stepping away not stepping down."
Friedrich had spoken to friends and family who still lived in Zimbabwe and they had said the announcement had not caused any outbreak or violence.
"Take over has been very quiet, I do hope it continues that way."
The media specialist who was born and bred in the town of Shabanii said her country was still "beautiful" and made a visit home every two years.
"I'd like to see the people wake up, and the money that is put into Zimbabwe go to the people.
"I can't see how this (the resignation) is going to change anything."
Mugabe submitted his letter of resignation which was read out in parliament.
"My decision to resign is voluntary on my part and arises from my concern for the welfare of the people of Zimbabwe and my desire for a smooth, non-violent transfer of power."
Cars began honking horns and people cheered in the streets, as the news spread like wildfire across the capital.
Mugabe, who had been the world's oldest head of state at 93, said that proper procedures should be followed to install new leadership.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters welcomed the resignation of Mugabe.
"This moment will be seen as a critical point in the history of Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwean people have voiced their support for change in a peaceful way," Peters said in a statement.
"New Zealand has made its position on the Mugabe regime clear over the years. Zimbabwe has suffered enormously under Robert Mugabe's presidency through economic oppression, corruption and a blatant disregard for democracy and human rights," Peters said.
New Zealand had travel bans in place for Robert Mugabe and his wife Grace due to the destructive conduct of Mugabe's government.
"The Zimbabwean people have an opportunity to hold free and fair elections as soon as possible to determine the future direction of their country.
"New Zealand supports the efforts of the Zimbabwean people to uphold democracy and to return to a prosperous and vibrant country free of oppression," Peters said.