Party leaders congratulate PM on baby news

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and partner Clarke Gayford have announced they are having a baby in June. Photo / Doug Sherring

Political party leaders were quick to congratulate Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on the news that she will be a mother.

Ardern announced this morning that she will take six weeks off after having her baby, which is due in June.

Green Party co-leader James Shaw said the news would be an inspiration to women.

"That a woman can be the Prime Minister of New Zealand and choose to have a family while in office says a lot about the kind of country we are and that we can be – modern, progressive, inclusive and equal.

"For that reason I know this announcement will be significant for many women, in particular, and that all New Zealanders will share in the Prime Minister's joy today.

"This is wonderful news. On behalf of the Green Party, I'd like to congratulate Jacinda and Clarke, and wish them the very best for parenthood."

National Party Leader Bill English also extended his warm congratulations.

"Mary and I would like to extend our sincere congratulations to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and her partner Clarke Gayford on the news of the Prime Minister's pregnancy.

"It is an incredible privilege to be a parent. A new child will bring real joy to their lives. We wish them all the best."

English himself spent time as a house husband while his wife Mary worked.

"I did it in the late 80s, out of the suburbs, actually, where a male out in the suburbs during the day was regardred as unemployed or or had some kind of disability on a benefit," he has said of his time as a house husband.