WELLINGTON: Former Defence Force head Jerry Mateparae has been named New Zealand's governor-general, the Dominion Post reports.
The government revealed his selection this morning.
Mateparae will replace incumbent Sir Anand Satyanand.
Mateparae, 56, is a highly-regarded former military leader who joined the army in 1972 and rose through the ranks to become the chief of the Defence Force.
He stood down just months ago to head the top secret Government Communications Security Bureau.
His appointment comes as a major surprise, as he has been in the GCSB role for little more than a month and his name was not among those most regularly floated as the successor to Sir Anand Satyanand, whose term ends in August.
First Māori defence chief
Mateparae was the first Māori Defence Force chief and will be just the second Maori Governor-General.
"I believe he will bring great mana and a wide range of qualities to this role, including judgement, energy and an enthusiasm for encouraging excellence in others," Key said.
"As Governor-General, he will have the opportunity to work with a wide range of New Zealanders and develop an active programme in the community.
"Jerry has served New Zealand with dedication and honour throughout his career, and I am delighted that he has agreed to continue that service in a new, broader role."
Sir Anand Satyanand's term ends on August 23.
Key thanked him for his dedication and service, and said there would be a state farewell for him on August 17.
Mateparae will begin his five-year term on August 31. - Dominion Post/Pacific Media Watch
Pacific Media Watch
