New Zealand's next Governor-General will be Dame Cindy Kiro, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has revealed.
The PM made the announcement at her weekly post-Cabinet press conference this afternoon, where she was joined by Kiro.
Kiro used to be the Children's Commissioner and has extensive experience working with Government. She also has a lengthy academic background.
Kiro will take over from Dame Patsy Reddy, who finishes her five-year term in September.
"I am delighted Dame Cindy has accepted the role," Ardern said. "She has a highly distinguished and lengthy career in academic and leadership positions and has made significant contributions across a number of fields and organisations."
Kiro is of Ngā Puhi, Ngāti Kahu and Ngāti Hine descent. "I am proudly Māori and also part British," she said.
Kiro said that gave her an understanding of the place of Te Tiriti in New Zealand's history.
She said she was born to a very poor family so she knows about the hard work and perseverance required to succeed.
Asked what she brings to the role, she said: "Community and service".
She will be working for those who can't speak for themselves and don't have a profile.
Kiro said she was "very surprised" when Ardern asked her if she would like the role.
Governors-General are paid $371,900 a year and have a $33,358 annual allowance.
As well as this, they get a $79,000 annuity – a yearly pension-like payment.
The Governor-General's job is to be the Queen's representative in New Zealand.
The job includes reading any newly elected government's speech from the throne – a pre-written speech outline of the new government's policy intentions over the coming three years.
They also sign into effect any new laws in New Zealand, giving any legislation passed in Parliament the Royal Assent.
