This archive report was first published on 25 May 2020.
On Monday, a significant earthquake hit New Zealand, catching Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern off guard during a live television interview. The quake, which lasted less than 30 seconds, was felt by tens of thousands of New Zealanders and prompted some to scramble for cover.
According to the country's seismology agency, the tremor struck approximately 20 miles northwest of Levin, roughly an hour's drive from the capital, at a depth of 23 miles.
Ms. Ardern, known for her calm demeanor in crisis situations, took the quake in stride. She interrupted the interview, saying, "We're just having a bit of an earthquake here, Ryan, quite a decent shake," while smiling and holding steady in front of the camera.
She reassured the host, Ryan Bridge, not to worry about the building's movement, stating, "If you see things moving behind me, don't worry, it's just the building moving a little more than most."
When the shaking stopped, Ms. Ardern continued the interview, saying, "I'm not under any hanging lights, and looks like I am in a structurally strong place."
Ms. Ardern's composure during the quake is consistent with her previous responses to crises, including the Christchurch terrorist attack, the White Island volcano eruption, and the coronavirus outbreak, which New Zealand has largely managed to control.
With an election scheduled for September and polls showing significant support for Ms. Ardern, some people jokingly wondered if she might have orchestrated the quake.
