Jacinda Ardern facing biggest challenge yet as New Zealand switches to Covid suppression

The prime minister has enjoyed huge support during the pandemic - but the country's new course may force unpopular trade-offs

This week, New Zealand's locked down cities woke to a brave new world of lifted restrictions: state-sanctioned picnics in parks, the prospect of reopening schools, a chance to reunite with friends and family. Infusing the visions of grass-stained blankets and beach-side beers, however, is a strong dose of Covid anxiety. Cases continue to circulate in the community, and the country's long-held commitment to elimination is being been cast off.

As New Zealand steps into the unknown with its Covid approach, so does its prime minister, Jacinda Ardern. Having brought the country through the pandemic largely unscathed so far, she was richly rewarded with political popularity and trust. Now, the prime minister faces the difficult task of guiding it through a new era of Covid suppression - and it could be the most significant political challenge she has faced yet.