The Wedding Of Jacinda Ardern And Clarke Gayford By Chris Hipkins

(CTN News) – The former prime minister was among many familiar faces at the Hawke’s Bay wedding of Dame Jacinda Ardern and Clarke Gayford.

In a ceremony filled with laughter, cheering, and dancing, Ardern and her TV host partner of almost 10 years were married at the exclusive Craggy Range winery on the outskirts of Havelock North.

Hipkins described the event as “lovely” to the Herald this morning, but he declined to comment further.

Leaving the Village Motel with partner Toni Grace, the Labour leader looked relaxed and tanned in shorts, a T-shirt and sunglasses.

According to Hipkins, he had a few sausage rolls last night. Now that the couple has decided to take a family vacation, they are leaving for the airport. Covid-19 caused the wedding to be postponed due to the pandemic in 2022.

During her five-minute speech, Ardern gave nods to friends, close colleagues, and family, some of whom had travelled long distances to attend. Then she spent almost a minute talking about her “best friend” and now husband, Casey McDonald of Craggy Range.

Former Deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson officiated the wedding earlier.

The dress Ardern wore was designed by Juliette Hogan, who was accompanied by her husband. Ardern was pictured in the ivory halter gown with a high neckline, cinched waist, and low back released by the couple yesterday evening. Former PM Ardern wore a tulle veil clipped into a chignon up-do, created by hairdresser Tane Tomoana.

The bride’s shoes were designed by Mount Maunganui designer Chaos and Harmony, and the couple’s wedding rings were made by New Zealand jewellery designer Zoe and Morgan.

The wedding was attended by two buses, including one with Hipkins and Grace, Sir Trevor Mallard, former speaker of the House and ex-minister Megan Woods. Gayford’s ex-partner Hollie Smith, Marlon Williams, and MC Tali also attended.

Among the other political guests were former minister Kelvin Davis, former MP Dame Annette King, and fellow former MP Darren Hughes. The event was also attended by Andrew Campbell, former press secretary to Ardern.

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