Jacinda Ardern resigns as New Zealand Prime Minister  trends now

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Jacinda Ardern has choked back tears as she announced her resignation as New Zealand Prime Minister in an emotional press conference.

Her resignation comes into effect on Sunday if the Labour Party can elect her replacement, or on February 7 if the process was drawn out.

Ms Ardern said she hoped to find the energy and heart during the Christmas break to stay in the job, 'but I have not been able to do that'.

'I am human. Politicians are human. We give all we can for as long as we can - and then it's time. And for me, it's time,' she said.

'I know what this job takes. And I know that I no longer have enough in the tank to do it justice.

'I am leaving because with such a privileged job comes a big responsibility. The responsibility to know when you are the right person to lead - and also when you're not.'