Next governor-general shows value of New Zealand's women leaders: PM

A law academic and businesswoman was named as New Zealand's next governor-general on Tuesday, the representative of the country's head of state.

Prime Minister John Key announced that Dame Patsy Reddy would succeed former defense force chief Jerry Mateparae in the post for a standard five-year term from Sept. 14.

The governor-general is the official representative of the New Zealand monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, who resides in Britain.

The Queen approved the appointment of Reddy, who was recommended by the prime minister.

Key described Reddy as a passionate New Zealander, a well-respected businesswoman and a staunch supporter of the country's creative sector.

"She is thoughtful, articulate and has a brilliant legal mind. I am sure New Zealanders will be proud to have her as our governor-general," Key said in a statement.

Reddy had most recently worked on a review of New Zealand's intelligence and security agencies, which this month proposed extending their ability to spy on New Zealanders.

Reddy, 63, will be New Zealand's 21st governor-general and the third woman to hold the post.

"New Zealand is well regarded for gender equality, having been the first country to give women the vote. Dame Patsy's appointment sends a strong message about New Zealand valuing women in leadership roles," said Key.