It’s not The Bachelor — it’s our first man

A photo of Clarke Gayford with his fellow First Partners in London looks a little like a promo for The Bachelor with him down on one knee.

The Prime Minister’s partner found himself very much in the minority when he took part in the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting spouses’ programme. His only male company was Theresa May’s husband, Phillip May.

It did not stop him joining a boat trip on the Thames and enjoying lunch at Somerset House. Gayford’s time will soon be limited as he will be on fulltime baby duties.

While in Europe Gayford has accompanied Ardern to many official events, from state banquets to an audience with the Queen.

When it came to dealing with royalty and dress codes, Gayford’s secret weapon was a man called Leroy who works in Ardern’s office.

It turns out Leroy used to work for the Queen. As a result he knows the right way to say Ma’am and, fortunately for Gayford, how to tie a bow tie. When it is suggested Gayford simply use a good old elastic bow tie he looks horrified: “Leroy would never allow that.”

Meanwhile, Ardern’s choice of outfit — a feathered korowai over her dress — for the state banquet at Buckingham Palace grabbed the attention of British media, causing a “sartorial stir”. The Guardian noted that while Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had been ridiculed for wearing indigenous clothing, Ardern made it look right.

Spouses are expected at major summits and former Prime Minister John Key often took his wife, Bronagh, and sometimes his son, Max, travelling, paying any extra costs himself. Bill English also usually travelled with wife Mary overseas.

But neither were as involved in the programme as Gayford has been and very rarely did interviews as Gayford has frequently.

Ardern’s schedule has included meeting German chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Emmanuel Macron and the Queen. She was wrapping up the Europe trip overnight, attending the Chogm Leaders’ Retreat at Windsor Castle. The Commonwealth leaders were expected to discuss Russia, climate change, trade and whether the Queen’s successor will also become the head of the Commonwealth.

She is then due at the Topp Twins’ 60th birthday celebration gig at London’s Hackney Empire with former Prime Minister Helen Clark.