The world is yet again praising Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern for her "classy" response to the White Island volcano disaster.
Photos emerged of the New Zealand Prime Minister hugging first responders, not dissimilar to pictures of her hugging victims of the Christchurch massacre.
Ardern was praised for her leadership in the wake of the horror that has gripped Christchurch following a terrorist attack that killed 50 people.
Her staunch rejection of the "extremist ideology" behind the attacks, which she said had "no place in New Zealand society", was applauded by those watching events unfold from around the world.
This morning, Ardern got a similar response after she met with emergency services personnel who responded to the White Island eruption that left five dead, with almost a dozen Australian tourists still unaccounted for.
Some may think this is merely a photo op, however at least coupled with her as a person, I find this more than believable. It's genuine, true care. Again, no politician is perfect but if there has ever been one that's human and truly true, it is Jacinda Ardern. I am proud. pic.twitter.com/rmsUtA0Eva
— ⚔️🛡 Asad Naseem 🔜 Faisalabad ✈️ (@PokeCollection) December 10, 2019
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has confirmed 24 Australians were visiting the island "as part of a cruise ship tour". He said 13 have been hospitalised and the remaining 11 are still unaccounted for.
Ardern has labelled the events at White Island a "calamity".
Speaking to media following a roughly 30-minute conversation with Whakatane first responders and the local fire station, Ardern said the emergency service personnel had gone above and beyond the line of duty.
I listened to Jacinda Ardern's presser on the way home from work in regards to NZ's volcanic eruption today. As a true leader should, answered questions measured, calm and responsibly,and left the technical questions to the experts.. . pic.twitter.com/56qtxeFPId
— 💧🌱Scruffymurphy (@Scruffymurphy2) December 9, 2019
"They have done an incredible job under devastating circumstances," she said. "What a calamity that exists here in Whakatane and everyone from coastguards, firefighters, St John, the police, all (those) down on the ground making themselves available to assist."
Many have taken to social media to respond to Ardern's reaction.
One man wrote how she should come to Australia and look after our country in times of emergency.
I *really* wish we could have a Prime Minister like @jacindaardern Such a good role model for the New Zealand people and for us around the World. #notbloodyboris
— 🦊 (@caththo) December 9, 2019
Another woman wrote, "What a class act Jacinda Ardern is. Her compassionate speech in regard to the volcanic eruption on White Island is something we in Australia would never experience under our cold hard hearted government."
One commented how Ardern was "the best leader in the world right now", while others suggested Morrison should not be visiting NZ and instead focus on this own country "burning" right now.
"Hey Morrison. It's important to offer our support to New Zealand. But what about addressing the current crisis in Australia. Our East Coast is on fire and all you can do is offer thoughts and prayers. Address climate change now."
Within about 1 hour of a natural disaster in NZ, Jacinda Ardern is addressing the country on the situation, resources & plans.
— Mary OBrien (@mezjac) December 9, 2019
I can't compare her to Australia's PM, she is measured, appears in control.#auspol
Many of the victims in the disaster are tourists from Australia, the UK, China, Malaysia and the US.
New Zealand Police say there are no further signs of life on the island, following flyovers late on Monday.
It is still unclear when emergency services will be able to access the island and start recovering bodies, with police waiting for the all-clear before going in.
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