163-524: The governor-general of New Zealand ( Māori : Te kāwana tianara o Aotearoa ) is the representative of the monarch of New Zealand , currently King Charles III . As the King is concurrently the monarch of 14 other Commonwealth realms and lives in the United Kingdom , he, on the advice of his New Zealand prime minister , appoints a governor-general to carry out his constitutional and ceremonial duties within
326-469: A parliamentary system of government wherein the role of the King is both legal and practical. The Crown is regarded as a corporation sole , with the sovereign, in the position of head of state, as the centre of a construct in which the power of the whole is shared by multiple institutions of government acting under the sovereign's authority. The vast powers that belong to the Crown are collectively known as
489-453: A "unified purpose to advance an ambitious, resilient and well-governed New Zealand". Their role is to be advisors, leaders, and stewards for the executive government. A key difference between the head of DPMC and those within the DPMC is that the head is part of the public service therefore their core job is to support the government of the day. They must remain non-partisan and will continue to serve
652-788: A Commonwealth-wide tour for her Silver Jubilee , Elizabeth was in New Zealand from 22 February to 7 March 1977; she made a brief visit, between 12 and 20 October 1981, following a Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Melbourne ; marked the centennial of the New Zealand Police during a tour from 22 February to 2 March 1986; the Queen closed the Commonwealth Games in Auckland and, with her son, Prince Edward , took part in events marking
815-591: A broad range of regeneration issues across the greater Christchurch region. GCG also inherited specific responsibilities from the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA). GCG operated from April 2016 until January 2021. In February 2018 the Child Wellbeing and Poverty Reduction Group became a business unit of the DPMC to support the then-Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern in her role as Minister for Child Poverty Reduction and to support
978-400: A garden reception to mark Waitangi Day . According to the official website of the governor-general, in a typical year over 15,000 people will attend such events. Starting from New Year's Day 2009, the governor-general issues a New Year's Message to bring to attention issues New Zealanders might consider as they look to the future. The New Zealand Government pays for the costs associated with
1141-518: A glorious past". Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (New Zealand) The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet ( DPMC ; Māori : Te Tari o te Pirimia me te Komiti Matua ) is the central public service department of New Zealand, charged with providing support and advice to the governor-general , the prime minister and members of the Cabinet of New Zealand . The department
1304-445: A minimum of five years but this tenure may also be extended. The Terms of Appointment of the governor-general defines their expected term in office. For instance, Dame Silvia Cartwright would have been in office for five years on 4 April 2006, but her term as governor-general was extended by four months as Prime Minister Helen Clark deemed that "the selection and appointment process [of a new governor-general] [should] not coincide with
1467-529: A minor or incapacitated. The Regency Act 1937 is a British law, not a New Zealand law, and as such has no direct applicability to New Zealand. However, the New Zealand Constitution Act 1986 specifies that should a regent be installed in the United Kingdom, that individual will carry out the functions of the sovereign of New Zealand. The sovereign draws from New Zealand funds for support in
1630-767: A number of other occasions: between 6 and 18 February 1963, she attended celebrations at Waitangi and the Queen Elizabeth II Arts Council was founded as the nation's gift to the monarch; from 12 to 30 March 1970, the Queen, accompanied by Prince Charles and Princess Anne , participated in the James Cook bicentenary celebrations; between 30 January and 8 February 1974, and she attended and closed that year's Commonwealth Games in Christchurch and participated in New Zealand Day events at Waitangi. As part of
1793-468: A number of remaining powers, but almost always on the formal advice of the prime minister and other ministers . Ministers are, in turn, accountable to the democratically elected House of Representatives, and through it, to the people. (The governor-general may refuse to follow ministerial advice only in the event that the prime minister loses the confidence of the House of Representatives.) Even when appointing
SECTION 10
#17330858564631956-520: A person claims to have been wrongly convicted or wrongly sentenced. The governor-general acts on the advice of the minister of justice . The governor-general has power to grant a pardon, to refer a person's case back to the court under section 406 of the Crimes Act 1961 , and to reduce a person's sentence. If a person's case is referred back to the court, the court will consider the case in a similar way to hearing an appeal. The court then provides advice to
2119-445: A prime minister, the governor-general rarely exercises discretion; constitutional conventions dictate that they appoint the individual most likely to maintain the House of Representatives' support, usually the leader of the largest party among those forming the government. The governor-general appoints and dismisses Cabinet ministers and other ministers, but exercises such a function only on the prime minister's advice. Thus, in practice,
2282-543: A recommendation endorsed by three-quarters of parliament. In its submission to the select committee considering the Bill, the Republican Movement suggested parliament appoint the next governor-general with a three-quarters majority plus a majority of party leaders in parliament, with a similar dismissal process and a fixed five-year term. National MP Nikki Kaye queried whether several one-member parties in parliament could veto
2445-448: A result, the current monarch is officially titled King of New Zealand ( Māori : Kīngi o Aotearoa ) and, in this capacity, he and other members of the royal family undertake various public and private functions across the Realm of New Zealand . The King is the only member of the royal family with any constitutional role. All executive authority is vested in the King, and his assent
2608-548: A serving minister of state , was controversially appointed as governor-general. The Leader of the Opposition, Bill Rowling , complained he had not been consulted by Prime Minister Robert Muldoon on the appointment of Holyoake, and openly suggested that he would have recommended Sir Edmund Hillary instead. (Rowling's remark was in turn criticised by the Government, as Hillary had backed the opposition Labour Party in 1975 as part of
2771-473: A special relationship, the first coming from northern chiefs in 1852. This and all subsequent appeals were directed back to the sovereign's New Zealand ministers for advice on how to proceed. The results were not always favourable to Māori, who have communicated their discontent to the monarch or other royals; in response to a refusal by the Executive Council in 1981 to allow Mana Motuhake direct access to
2934-662: A target within their Estimates process, which is later compared with their actual performance in the Annual Report. This process has been mandatory since 1 July 2019. In 2021, The Policy Project underwent an interim evaluation, commissioned in the previous year by the Head of the Policy Profession. The review was performed by Allen + Clarke Policy and Regulatory Specialists. The review found The Policy Project to be fit-for-purpose, well-regarded and efficient. The products and services of
3097-769: A whole. In February 2021, the Auditor-general announced a performance audit of the AoG response to COVID-19 (released on 13/12/22). By August 2022, the coordination of COVID-19 response functions began to transition from the DPMC to (mainly health sector) agencies . It leads the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCOI) into the Terrorist Attack on the Christchurch Mosques . The report was released in December 2020 that details what
3260-619: Is a former chair of Monarchy New Zealand , criticised the proposal, claiming that "[g]iving the Governor-General a new and separate source of democratic legitimacy could result in a separation between Ministers and Governors-General. (...) the Governors-General would have their own independent popular mandate, and become potential political rivals of the Ministers". In February 2008, republican group New Zealand Republic proposed electing
3423-623: Is a nominal chief executive, acting within the constraints of constitutional convention and precedent. Although the governor-general's powers are in theory extensive, they are in practice very limited; most political power is exercised by the New Zealand Parliament (which is composed of the Governor-General-in-Parliament and the House of Representatives ), through the prime minister and Cabinet . The governor-general does use
SECTION 20
#17330858564633586-619: Is a small secondary northern residence, Government House, Auckland . Government House in Wellington closed in October 2008 for a major $ 44 million conservation and rebuilding project and was reopened in March 2011. In November 2012, Prince Charles opened a visitor centre at Government House in Wellington to mark the Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II . The viceregal household aids the governor-general in
3749-573: Is also charged with centrally leading New Zealand's "national security planning, which includes civil defence ." The department's overall area of responsibility is in helping to provide, at an administrative level, the "constitutional and institutional glue" within New Zealand's parliamentary democracy. The department along with the Public Service Commission , and the Treasury constitute the central agencies or public service departments leading
3912-495: Is appointed by the monarch on the advice of Prime Minister of New Zealand and serves a term of five years. The position is largely ceremonial, with the Governor-General performing various duties such as opening and closing parliamentary sessions, signing bills into law, and granting royal assent. The Governor-General also has a number of other ceremonial and diplomatic functions, such as hosting visiting dignitaries and representing New Zealand at international events. The DPMC supports
4075-457: Is considered to be a founding document of government. The Treaty identifies the Crown's right to kāwanatanga , or "governorship", leading one Māori academic to argue that kāwanatanga , or His Majesty's Government in New Zealand, is party to the treaty. Since the treaty's implementation, a number of petitions have been made by Māori directly to the sovereign in London, who they felt they had
4238-515: Is delegated the sovereign's Royal Prerogative (royal powers), including the reserve powers , on behalf of the sovereign. All of the executive authority of the New Zealand monarch (except for the appointment of the governor-general) is delegated to the governor-general by the sovereign under the Letters Patent 1983 : ...We do hereby authorise and empower Our Governor-General, except as may be otherwise provided by law,— (a) to exercise on Our behalf
4401-399: Is exacerbated by the reluctance of the monarch or their representatives to become politically involved. Three 19th-century New Zealand governors were recalled from office: William Hobson (who died before he was officially recalled), Robert FitzRoy , and Sir George Grey . All three governed before the institution of responsible government in New Zealand; they were dismissed on the advice of
4564-416: Is immune from criminal prosecution , the notion in common law being that the sovereign "can do no wrong"; the monarch cannot be prosecuted in his own courts for criminal offences. The monarch, and by extension the governor-general, also grants immunity from prosecution, exercises the royal prerogative of mercy , and may pardon offences against the Crown, either before, during, or after a trial. Members of
4727-458: Is incorporated into New Zealand's national identity . Royal symbols may specifically distinguish institutions that derive their authority from the Crown (such as parliament), establishments with royal associations, or merely be ways of expressing loyal or patriotic sentiment. The main symbol of the monarchy is the sovereign—Queen Elizabeth II, as of 2023 , is still depicted on all coins , the twenty-dollar banknote , and postage stamps such as
4890-527: Is marked by the opening of parliament , during which the governor-general delivers the ' Speech from the Throne ' in the Legislative Council Chamber , outlining the Government's legislative agenda. Dissolution ends a parliamentary term (which lasts a maximum of three years), and is followed by a general election for all seats in the House of Representatives. These powers are almost always exercised on
5053-587: Is not managed by one agency alone. The agencies of the national security community manage the national security, with prevention as the main focus. As such, the agencies of the national security community prioritise early action. Aotearoa’s New Zealand’s National Security Strategy outlines the national security approach. This aids the government to act early, deliberately, and in partnership to protect and promote its national security interests. It also aims to understand, intercept, prepare for and respond to threats affecting Aotearoa. The Policy Project operates within
Governor-General of New Zealand - Misplaced Pages Continue
5216-547: Is now meant to consult with the leader of the opposition during the nomination process, to avoid partisan controversy, and informally seek approval for the appointment from the monarch. The decision is then kept confidential until both the New Zealand Government and Buckingham Palace (the royal household) announce the appointment simultaneously. Beginning with the appointment of Sir David Beattie in 1980, lawyers and judges have predominated as governors-general. Following
5379-668: Is now the lead minister for this work. Following a review by Cabinet of the Health and Disability System Review/Hauora Manaaki Ki Aotearoa Whānui a business unit known as the Health and Disability Review Transition Unit was established in September 2020 to lead the response to the review. The Transition Unit has launched a new website dedicated to the reform of the health system in Aotearoa New Zealand. This business unit ceased to operate in September 2022 with its monitoring function handed to
5542-586: Is observed on the first Monday in June (not on the date of the monarch's actual birth). Celebrations are mainly official, including the Birthday Honours list and military ceremonies. To receive patronage , an organisation must prove to be long lasting, and to be of the highest standard in their field. These organisations, such as the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services' Association , signified by
5705-527: Is present in New Zealand the King may exercise his powers personally. Every power conferred on the Governor-General by or under any Act is a royal power which is exercisable by the Governor-General on behalf of the Sovereign, and may accordingly be exercised either by the Sovereign in person or by the governor-general. Further constitutional duties are outlined in the Constitution Act. The governor-general
5868-447: Is required for parliament to enact laws and for letters patent and orders in council to have legal effect. However, the King's authority is subject to the conventional stipulations of constitutional monarchy , and his direct participation in these areas of governance is limited. Most of the related powers are instead exercised by the elected members of parliament , the ministers of the Crown generally drawn from amongst them, and
6031-402: Is to] the Sovereign, [however] loyalty [is] to the Government of the day ... The Defence Force and the disposition of those Forces are at the decision ... of Her Majesty's Ministers for the time being. Though the monarch and members of his family also act as colonels-in-chief of various regiments in the military, these posts are only ceremonial in nature, reflecting the Crown's relationship with
6194-515: The British monarch became New Zealand's head of state. The country gradually became independent from Britain and the monarchy evolved to become a distinctly New Zealand institution, represented by unique symbols . The individual who is the New Zealand monarch is currently shared with 14 other countries (realms) within the Commonwealth of Nations , in each of which the monarchy is legally separate. As
6357-521: The COVID-19 pandemic in New Zealand . As a part of this response, in March 2020, the department headed the first table-top COVID-19 planning exercise. In December 2020, the COVID-19 Response Unit (COVID-19 Group) was established as a business unit of the DPMC. The group acted as a central COVID-19 response function, responsible for oversight, integration and coordination across the response system as
6520-432: The Cabinet , a committee of the Executive Council charged with advising the Crown on the exercise of the royal prerogative, and legally required to keep the governor-general up to date on state affairs. In the construct of constitutional monarchy and responsible government , the ministerial advice tendered is typically binding, a situation described as "The [King] reigns , but the government rules , so long as it has
6683-586: The Constitution Act 1986 explicitly identifies the monarch as New Zealand's head of state . The monarch of New Zealand appoints the governor-general on the sole recommendation of the prime minister of New Zealand , by commission issued under the Seal of New Zealand , known as the "Terms of Appointment". Constitutional convention adopted in 1930, following the Imperial Conference held that year, allowed for
Governor-General of New Zealand - Misplaced Pages Continue
6846-646: The Cook Islands and Tokelau , and the Ross Dependency . Also as part of international relations, the governor-general issues the credentials (called letter of credence ) of New Zealand ambassadors and consuls, as authorised by the Letters Patent. Increasingly, the governor-general is personally accorded the same respect and privileges of a head of state. This is particularity true when the governor-general visits other nations or receives heads of states. Prior to
7009-485: The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet prepares a short list of candidates for the office. By convention, the leader of the Opposition is consulted on the appointment; this has not always been the case. On only one occasion has the prime minister's choice of appointee aroused public anger or complaint, and that controversy was short-lived. In 1977, Sir Keith Holyoake , a former National Party prime minister and
7172-656: The Executive Council , appointing ministers and judges, granting royal assent to legislation, and summoning and dissolving parliament . These functions are generally exercised only according to the advice of an elected government. The governor-general also has an important ceremonial role: hosting events at Government House in Wellington, and travelling throughout New Zealand to open conferences, attend services and commemorations, and generally provide encouragement to individuals and groups who are contributing to their communities. The current office traces its origins to when
7335-491: The Imperial Laws Application Act 1988 , these constitutional laws as they apply to New Zealand now lie within the full control of the New Zealand Parliament . Nonetheless, New Zealand agreed not to change its rules of succession without the unanimous consent of the other realms, unless explicitly leaving the shared monarchy relationship—a reciprocal arrangement applied uniformly in all the other realms, including
7498-687: The Lomé Convention in February 1975, the Queen, rather than the governor-general, would sign treaties on behalf of New Zealand. Following the signing of the convention, the Queen granted "full powers" to the governor-general to sign such instruments. Under the Defence Act 1990 and letters patent the governor-general is also the titular commander-in-chief of the Defence Force . The position technically involves issuing commands for New Zealand troops, though
7661-607: The New Zealand Constitution Act 1852 contained a provision for the governor to be elected by New Zealand's parliament. This provision was removed from the final enactment, probably because the Colonial Office wanted to keep a check on New Zealand's colonial government. In 1887, Sir George Grey, by then also a former premier, moved the Election of Governor Bill to make the office of governor an elective position. The Bill
7824-439: The Realm of New Zealand . Governors-general are typically appointed for a five-year term of office, subject to a possible short extension, though they formally serve " at the monarch's pleasure ". The incumbent governor-general is Dame Cindy Kiro , since 21 October 2021. Administrative support for the governor-general is provided by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet . Constitutional functions include presiding over
7987-596: The Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment , and the Royal New Zealand Army Logistic Regiment . Māori interaction with the Crown dates back to 1832, when King William IV appointed James Busby as British resident . On 28 October 1835, Busby oversaw a hui held at Waitangi , at which a flag was selected for New Zealand and a declaration of independence written by Busby was signed by 36 Māori chiefs . Both were acknowledged
8150-534: The Wanganui Collegiate School . I want to show you that the Crown is not merely an abstract symbol of our unity but a personal and living bond between you and me. Apart from New Zealand, the King and his family regularly perform public duties in the other 14 Commonwealth realms of which he is head of state. This situation can mean members of the royal family will be promoting one nation and not another. On some occasions Queen Elizabeth II had represented
8313-444: The copyright for all government publications ( Crown copyright ). I, [specify], swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her [or His] Majesty [specify the name of the reigning Sovereign], Her [or His] heirs and successors, according to law. So help me God. As the embodiment of the state, the monarch is the locus of oaths of allegiance , required of many employees of the Crown, as well as by new citizens, as per
SECTION 50
#17330858564638476-463: The governor-general of New Zealand . The role of the monarchy is a recurring topic of public discussion. Some New Zealanders think New Zealand should become a republic with a New Zealand resident as the head of state, but most wish to retain the monarchy. The Realm of New Zealand is one of the Commonwealth realms , 15 independent members of the Commonwealth of Nations that share the same person as sovereign and head of state, and have in common
8639-582: The introduction of MMP in 1996, it has been determined that an understanding of constitutional law is an important prerequisite for candidacy to the office. The first governor-general to preside over a MMP general election was Sir Michael Hardie Boys , a retired high court judge. Hardie Boys was appointed in 1995 on the advice of then prime minister Jim Bolger , following notification of all leaders of parties then represented in parliament, to ensure broad cross-party support. Following Hardie Boys' appointment other party leaders are only notified very shortly before
8802-509: The judges and justices of the peace . Other powers vested in the King, such as dismissal of a prime minister , are significant but are treated only as reserve powers and as an important security part of the role of the monarchy. Since the monarch resides in the United Kingdom (the oldest Commonwealth realm), most of the royal constitutional and ceremonial duties within the Realm of New Zealand are typically carried out by his or her representative,
8965-411: The legislative process save for the granting of royal assent , which is necessary for a bill to be enacted as law; either figure or a delegate may perform this task; this is now a matter of convention. The Crown is further responsible for summoning and dissolving the parliament, after which the governor-general usually calls for a general election . The new parliamentary session is marked by either
9128-614: The line of succession , including the Act of Settlement 1701 and Bill of Rights 1689 , restrict the throne to the biological, legitimate descendants of Sophia of Hanover , and stipulate that the monarch cannot be a Roman Catholic and must be in communion with (i.e. a member of) the Church of England upon accession. Through the adoption of the Statute of Westminster (later repealed in New Zealand) and
9291-424: The royal prerogative , the exercise of which does not require parliamentary approval, though it is not unlimited; for example, the monarch does not have the prerogative to impose and collect new taxes without the authorisation of an act of Parliament . The consent of the Crown must be obtained before parliament may even debate a bill affecting the sovereign's prerogatives or interests, and no act of Parliament binds
9454-505: The sesquicentennial of the Treaty of Waitangi between 1 and 16 February 1990; between 1 and 10 November 1995, she attended the CHOGM in Auckland and opened the newly refurbished parliament buildings; and, as part of her global tour for her Golden Jubilee , Elizabeth was in New Zealand from 22 to 27 February 2002. Some of the royal tours undertaken by more junior members of the royal family include
9617-524: The state sector of New Zealand . The department serves the Executive branch of government (the governor-general , the prime minister and the Cabinet) through the provision of impartial advice and support services. Additionally, a major role of the department is to help co-ordinate the work of the core public service departments and ministries. The department supports the prime minister's twin roles as leader of
9780-467: The two national anthems , along with " God Defend New Zealand ", but has been generally restricted to official occasions where the monarch, a member of the royal family, or the governor-general is in attendance for a particular purpose. The right to declare a song a national anthem currently rests with the sovereign. As in other Commonwealth realms, the King's Birthday is a public holiday and, in New Zealand,
9943-406: The " Citizens for Rowling " campaign.) It was suggested by many commentators that it would be inappropriate to entrust the office to a former party leader or anyone who is closely allied with a political party; despite his background, Holyoake could not be said to have discharged his duties in a partisan way, and he stayed in office for only three years. Since Holyoake's appointment, the prime minister
SECTION 60
#173308585646310106-468: The 1990 visit of Princess Anne to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings on Anzac Day , and when Prince William represented the Queen of New Zealand at VE and VJ Day commemorations in 2005, as part of an 11-day tour, and opened the new Supreme Court of New Zealand building in early 2010. Prince Edward spent two terms of the 1982 academic year as a house tutor and junior master at
10269-566: The British (Imperial) government. The governor-general's functions can be informally divided into three areas: constitutional, ceremonial and community. By constitutional convention, the governor-general is "above party politics" and not involved in the day to day decision making of government. The Constitution Act 1986 provides that "the Governor-General appointed by the Sovereign is the Sovereign's representative in New Zealand". The governor-general
10432-517: The COVID-19 group to Health New Zealand and Ministry of Health . It's likely that the COVID-19 group will be disestablished, in the same way as CERA and GCG at some point in future, as the threat from COVID-19 fades and the pandemic ends. The Department is responsible for a number of programmes and initiatives in response to significant events. It leads the All-of-Government (AoG) Response to
10595-453: The Cabinet Office also administers the New Zealand Royal Honours System. Made up of the following awards, the final Honours list is approved by the King of New Zealand on the advice of the Prime Minister: From time to time there have been one-off or special awards such as the New Zealand 1990 Commemoration Medal, and the New Zealand Suffrage Medal 1993. 2. Minister of Broadcasting, Communications and Digital Media; 3. Minister Responsible for
10758-482: The Cabinet. Prior to the Lomé Convention in 1975, the monarch, rather than the governor-general, would sign treaties on behalf of New Zealand. Following the signing of the convention, it was decided that the governor-general could sign such instruments. The governor-general, on behalf of the monarch, also accredits New Zealand high commissioners and ambassadors, and receives similar diplomats from foreign states. The letters of credence and recall were formerly issued by
10921-423: The Cabinet. The primary function of the Executive Council is to collectively and formally advise the governor-general to issue Orders in Council (to make, for example, regulations or appointments), which operate under the authority of "the Governor-General in Council". Every reference in any Act to the Governor-General in Council or any other like expression includes a reference to the Sovereign acting by and with
11084-404: The Commonwealth realms, including New Zealand, could adopt its own royal titles for the monarch. The New Zealand Parliament enacted the Royal Titles Act in 1953, altering the style borne by Queen Elizabeth II and giving her the title of Elizabeth the Second, by the Grace of God of the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Her Other Realms and Territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of
11247-402: The Cook Islands within the Realm of New Zealand allow the King to be directly represented as head of state in Cook Islands affairs by the King's representative , while the governor-general of New Zealand represents the monarch in matters pertaining to the entire realm. The governor-general (themselves represented by state services commissioner ) represents the monarch in Niue, carrying out all
11410-472: The Crown (the death or abdication of a monarch), the late sovereign's heir immediately and automatically succeeds, without any obligatory need for affirmation or further ceremony —hence arises the phrase " The King is dead. Long live the King! " It is customary, though, for the accession of the new monarch to be publicly proclaimed at a ceremony attended by the governor-general and senior state officials. Following an appropriate period of national mourning ,
11573-418: The DPMC holds the core role of leading and managing the department. They hold many responsibilities including accountability for the departments' performance and the conduct of staff within the department including areas like understanding conflicts of interest that staff may hold. Furthermore, they are also responsible for allocating and tracking resources that government provides the DPMC. Additionally, they are
11736-549: The Duke and Duchess of York (later King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother ) in 1927; and Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester , from 1934 to 1935. Queen Elizabeth II was the first reigning monarch of New Zealand to tour the country, becoming such when she arrived during her 1953–1954 global tour; she broadcast from Government House in Auckland her annual royal Christmas message . Queen Elizabeth II also toured New Zealand on
11899-752: The Faith . Subsequent to the passage of the Royal Titles Act 1974 , the monarch's title in New Zealand is currently Charles the Third, By the Grace of God King of New Zealand and of His Other Realms and Territories, Head of the Commonwealth , Defender of the Faith . Although the King's New Zealand title includes the phrase 'Defender of the Faith', neither the sovereign nor the governor-general has any religious role in New Zealand; there has never been an established church in
12062-411: The Governor-General of New Zealand in carrying out his or her functions to represent the Sovereign. In this support framework, the department is expected to provide advice, administrative and support services so the Governor-General can perform her roles and duties effectively, ensuring consistent, lawful, and reliable professionalism. The current Governor-General of New Zealand is Dame Cindy Kiro , who
12225-514: The Governor-General. While the Queen and her representative exercise these powers as a matter of law, as a matter of convention, both the Queen and the Governor-General act on the advice of the democratically elected government, in all but the most exceptional circumstances. The governor-general also exercises the royal prerogative of mercy , an ancient right of convicted persons to seek a review of their case where they allege an injustice may have occurred. The prerogative of mercy can be exercised where
12388-413: The King or his rights unless the act expressly provides that it does. The New Zealand Government (formally termed His Majesty's Government ) is defined by the Constitution Act as the monarch acting on the advice of the Executive Council . One of the main duties of the Crown is to ensure that a democratic government is always in place. This involves appointing a prime minister to thereafter head
12551-601: The Ministry of Health. The most recent addition to the department’s portfolio of business units is the Implementation Unit which began operating in June 2021 with the goal of supporting the implementation of selected priority programmes and ensuring that key relevant figures and agencies are kept regularly and accurately informed on the progress of these programmes. The Head of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet has
12714-577: The New Zealand state , with the state therefore referred to as His Majesty The King in Right of New Zealand , or The Crown ( Māori : Te Karauna ). As such, the monarch is the employer of all government staff (including judges, members of the Defence Force, police officers, and parliamentarians ), as well as the owner of all state land and buildings ( Crown property including Crown land ), state-owned companies and agencies ( Crown entities ), and
12877-556: The New Zealand Defence Force as colonel-in-chief , or marking certain key anniversaries. Since 1869, when Prince Alfred , one of Queen Victoria's sons, arrived on New Zealand's shores, dozens of tours of New Zealand by a member of the royal family have taken place, though only five of those occurred before 1953. After Alfred came the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York (later King George V and Queen Mary ) in 1901; The Prince of Wales (later King Edward VIII ), in 1920;
13040-622: The New Zealand Security Intelligence Service; 4. Minister Responsible for the Government Communications Security Bureau; 5. other relevant Ministers. 2. Paul Goldsmith ; 3 & 4. Judith Collins . A number of groups have been established and disestablished throughout the time that the DPMC has served the Government. After a significant earthquake in Canterbury in early 2015, while
13203-407: The New Zealand monarch. In 1972, Sir Denis Blundell became the first New Zealand resident to be appointed to the office. When travelling abroad, particularly more frequently since the late 20th century, the governor-general is seen as the national representative of New Zealand; for this reason, the governor-general has been described by academics and politicians as the de facto head of state, though
13366-502: The New Zealand public service with an empirical way of measuring the quality of their policy advice. This is to reflect on the quality of policy advice provided and ministerial satisfaction with the policy advice. Using the framework, public service agencies are instructed to report of their policy quality in their Annual Report. This is represented by a numerical score, using the Policy Quality Framework. Agencies will include
13529-565: The New Zealand state at home or abroad, or their relations as members of the royal family participating in government organised ceremonies either in New Zealand or elsewhere. An invitation from the Prime Minister of New Zealand is the impetus for royal participation in any New Zealand event, with informal consultation occurring beforehand. A committee of the British Cabinet Office , the Royal Visits Committee , then coordinates
13692-612: The New Zealand state, the monarch is advised solely by New Zealand ministers of the Crown , with no input from British or other realms' ministers. One of the state duties carried out on the formal advice of the New Zealand prime minister is the appointment of the governor-general . As the monarch lives outside of New Zealand, the governor-general personally represents the monarch and performs most of his or her domestic duties in their absence, in accordance with Letters Patent 1983 . All royal powers in New Zealand may be carried out by both
13855-555: The Policy Advisory Group business unit. It supports the Chief Executive of DPMC’s stewardship role as Head of the Policy Profession. The Policy Project was established in 2014 as a way to improve the policy system by the Head of the Policy Profession. The project aims to build a high performing policy system to support good government decision making. They achieve this through: The Policy Quality Framework further provides
14018-587: The Public Sector knew about the terrorist. In November 2021, cabinet developed an approach to monitoring the Government’s response to the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the terrorist attacks. It previously led and coordinated the central government's ongoing role in the recovery and regeneration of greater Christchurch following the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 . The Greater Christchurch Group (GCG) provided policy, planning, and monitoring support to Ministers on
14181-489: The Queen Elizabeth II definitive stamp. There are references to St Edward's Crown , on New Zealand's coat of arms , on various medals, and awards. These latter cases reflect the monarch's place as the formal head of the New Zealand royal honours system . As such, only he can approve the creation of an honour , which he does on the advice of the prime minister. Though the monarch himself formally appoints members to
14344-569: The Queen, Māori activist Dun Mihaka offered a traditional rebuke by baring his buttocks at the Prince and Princess of Wales . In a later incident Mihaka attempted to crash into the Queen's motorcade; he was intercepted by police before this happened. In the Māori language , Queen Elizabeth II is sometimes referred to as te kōtuku-rerenga-tahi , meaning "the white heron of a single flight"; in Māori proverb,
14507-461: The Realm of New Zealand". The governor initially represented the British monarch and the British government . Therefore, many past officeholders were from the United Kingdom, including a succession of minor aristocrats from the 1890s onwards. In a gradual process, especially with the adoption of the Statute of Westminster in 1947, the governor-general has become the independent, personal representative of
14670-678: The Royal Prerogative under the reserve powers is non- justiciable ; that is, they cannot be challenged by judicial review , unlike the actions of other members of the executive (such as the Prime Minister in Fitzgerald v Muldoon ). The Queen has the power to appoint and dismiss Ministers and other important office holders, summon and dissolve Parliament, assent to Bills passed by the House of Representatives, and agree to regulations and Orders submitted by Ministers through Executive Council. The Queen delegates most of her powers to her representative,
14833-459: The Terms of Appointment are counter-signed by the prime minister, to signify that the prime minister is responsible for advising the sovereign on the appointment. The prime minister's advice has sometimes been the result of a decision by Cabinet; there is no requirement for this, and there have been a number of instances where the governor-general was appointed with no consultation of Cabinet. Since 1980,
14996-527: The Treasury held a vast amount of power. Before the current-day department, the prime minister's department existed which was replaced in 1987 by the prime minister's office. The prime minister’s office included “the prime minister's advisory group, press office and personal staff, and a separate cabinet office.” At this time there were many moving parts to the prime minister's department and related agencies. With multiple government departments involved along with
15159-588: The United Kingdom, and often likened to a treaty amongst these nations. In that spirit, the Commonwealth realms reached the Perth Agreement in 2011, committed to repeal the Royal Marriages Act 1772 , which gave precedence to male heirs and excluded from succession a person married to a Roman Catholic. In New Zealand this was accomplished through the Royal Succession Act 2013 . Upon a demise of
15322-582: The United Kingdom, while her governor-general represented New Zealand, with both in attendance at the same event. The Crown sits at the pinnacle of the New Zealand Defence Force . The governor-general is commander-in-chief , and under the Defence Act 1990 is authorised to "raise and maintain armed forces", consisting of the Royal New Zealand Navy , New Zealand Army and Royal New Zealand Air Force . The sovereign's position as head of
15485-462: The United Kingdom. The monarchy thus ceased to be an exclusively British institution and has become a separate establishment within New Zealand. Nonetheless, for historical reasons, the monarchy and monarch are termed "British" in both legal and common language; this conflicts with not only the New Zealand government's recognition of a distinctly New Zealand Crown , but also the sovereign's distinct New Zealand title. On all matters pertaining to
15648-448: The abolition of democracy. The Parliamentary Library notes that due to constitutional convention, the ability to withhold assent has been rendered ineffective, stating "...a Governor-General's powers to withhold the Royal assent to Bills (essential for legislation to be enacted) has been rendered ineffective by convention." As with other Commonwealth realms, the governor-general's exercise of
15811-491: The administration of New Zealand was placed under the Colony of New South Wales in 1839 and its governor was given jurisdiction over New Zealand. New Zealand would become its own colony the next year with its own governor. The modern title and functions of the "governor-general" came into being in 1917, and the office is currently mandated by Letters Patent issued in 1983 , constituting "the Governor-General and Commander-in-Chief of
15974-473: The advice and consent of the Executive Council. The governor-general also has custody of the Seal of New Zealand for all official instruments of His Majesty's Government in New Zealand. The governor-general summons and dissolves the New Zealand Parliament, acting in the absence of the sovereign. Each parliamentary session begins with the governor-general's summons. The new parliamentary session
16137-436: The advice of the prime minister, it is unclear how quickly the monarch would act on such advice. Some constitutional lawyers dispute whether the monarch would implement such advice at all, while others argue that they would delay its implementation. Others argue that the monarch would be obliged to follow the prime minister's advice (so long as the prime minister has the confidence of the House of Representatives), and further that
16300-424: The advice of the prime minister, who also determines the date of an election. The governor-general may theoretically refuse a dissolution, but the circumstances under which such an action would be warranted are unclear. It might be justified if a minority government had served only briefly and another party or coalition seemed likely to have better success in holding the confidence of the House. People tend to think
16463-412: The announcement is made, if at all. There has been on-and-off speculation that a member of the royal family might take up the position. In 2004, National MP Richard Worth , an avowed monarchist , asked Prime Minister Helen Clark whether she had considered nominating the Queen 's son, Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex , to be the next governor-general. The commission of appointment is publicly read in
16626-431: The appointment of the governor-general to be made upon the advice of the New Zealand Government, though that right was not exercised directly by a New Zealand prime minister until 1967, with the appointment of the first New Zealand-born governor-general, Sir Arthur Porritt on the advice of Keith Holyoake . The next governor-general, Sir Denis Blundell , was the first New Zealand born and resident governor-general. Today,
16789-434: The armed forces is reflected in New Zealand's naval vessels bearing the prefix His Majesty's New Zealand Ship ( Her Majesty's New Zealand Ship in the reign of a female monarch), and in the requirement that all members of the armed forces swear their allegiance to the sovereign and his or her heirs and successors. The governor-general commissions officers to command the forces. Allegiance [by Defence Force personnel
16952-427: The centre is a dark blue roundel bearing an initial 'E' surmounted by a crown, all within a gold chaplet of roses. The current monarch, King Charles III, has not adopted a personal flag for New Zealand. Music and song are utilised in various ways as reminders and identifiers of the sovereign. New Zealand inherited the anthem " God Save the King " (or, alternatively, "God Save the Queen") from Britain. It remains one of
17115-405: The chair of the officials' committee for domestic and external security cooperation (ODESC) . In conjunction with other team members of the leadership section in the department, they work to improve public service performance and work collaboratively amongst themselves and across multiple agencies. This department must lead and communicate crucial information to other agencies and departments within
17278-594: The city was still recovering from the 2011 Christchurch Earthquake , the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (CERA) was established, followed by the Greater Christchurch Group (GCG) in 2016. The disestablishment of CERA occurred in 2016 and GCG in 2021. The groups will have supported the Minister supporting Greater Christchurch Regeneration, initially Gerry Brownlee , then Nicky Wagner , and finally Megan Woods . Many responsibilities have been shifted from
17441-541: The cost of the Governor-General". As of 2024, the annual salary is NZ$ 440,000, which is subject to income tax from 2010. Until the end of Sir Anand Satyanand 's term, the salary of governor-general was regulated by the Civil List Act 1979 . From the start of Sir Jerry Mateparae 's term, the Governor-General Act 2010 applies. The governor-general's main residence is Government House, Wellington , and there
17604-633: The country. This is one of the key differences from the King's role in England , where the monarch is supreme governor of the Church of England . The King's elder son, William, Prince of Wales , is the first in line to the throne. Succession is, for persons born before 28 October 2011, governed by male-preference cognatic primogeniture and, for those born after 28 October 2011, by absolute primogeniture—wherein succession passes to an individual's children according to birth order, regardless of sex. Laws governing
17767-413: The date the governor-general signs the bill. The governor-general acts with the advice of the prime minister, unless the prime minister has lost the confidence of the House of Representatives. These are the so-called ' reserve powers '. These powers include the ability to: The exercise of the above powers is a matter of continuing debate. Constitutional commentators believe that the governor-general (or
17930-402: The decision, which could give them too much power if an appointment was based on one vote per leader. The Republican Movement responded that the method would ensure appointments were made that most MPs and parties found acceptable. The governor-general holds office at His Majesty's pleasure , under clause II of the Letters Patent 1983. It is the norm that an appointed individual holds office for
18093-402: The development of New Zealand’s Wellbeing Strategy for children and young people. To achieve this, the group's purpose is to; embed the child wellbeing and poverty reduction legislative framework, support the system to focus on things most likely to make a positive difference, and influence change and drive action across the system. As the current Minister for Child Poverty Reduction, Jan Tinetti
18256-490: The distribution of governmental power. The DPMC plays a central role in the application of these foundational aspects of government in New Zealand. and therefore, as an institution serves as a part of these constitutional arrangements itself. The DPMC’s Chief Executive, Rebecca Kitteridge , heads the eight business units that comprise the DPMC. Each serves a different purpose and set of relevant Ministers or other office-holders. The DPMC through its Honours Unit contained within
18419-447: The division of government departments, declining interdepartmental collaboration, Treasury taking a leading role in place of their coordinating one, and the necessity of challenging advice, this was reimagined to form the department of prime minister and cabinet. This simplified government decision-making both strategically and operationally. According to the DPMC website, the department was officially established on 1 January 1990 after
18582-546: The early 1900s, Lord Plunket and his wife, Lady Victoria, presided over the creation of Truby King 's Plunket Society . Until the later 20th century, many governors and governors-general were grand masters of the Freemasons, and they included visits to lodges as a part of their tours of the country. The governor-general has also had a long association with the Order of St John , traditionally serving as prior in New Zealand. Many of
18745-501: The execution of the royal constitutional and ceremonial duties and is managed by an official secretary to the governor-general . All of the governor-general's staff are public servants within the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet . Monarch of New Zealand The monarchy of New Zealand is the constitutional system of government in which a hereditary monarch is the sovereign and head of state of New Zealand . The current monarch, King Charles III , acceded to
18908-477: The executive authority of Our Realm of New Zealand, either directly or through officers subordinate to Our Governor-General; and (b) for greater certainty, but not so as to restrict the generality of the foregoing provisions of this clause, to do and execute in like manner all things that belong to the Office of Governor-General including the powers and authorities hereinafter conferred by these Our Letters Patent. When he
19071-482: The executive reports to the governor-general and the chief executive reports to the prime minister. To see current members and their roles refer to the table above. The Chief Executive of the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet works for public service. The main point of contact between the Ministerial Department and the public service represented by the DPMC is the chief executive. The Chief Executive of
19234-411: The following additions in the history of the DPMC : The DPMC website describes its primary objective as "helping to provide, at an administrative level, the 'constitutional and institutional glue' that underlies our system of parliamentary democracy." New Zealand has an ‘unwritten’ constitution which is characterised by its reliance on disparate pieces of legislation, norms, and structures that underpin
19397-670: The following year by the King in a letter from Lord Glenelg . As a result, the declaration's ratification by the British Parliament in 1836, officials in the Colonial Office determined in 1839 that a treaty of cessation would need to be signed with Māori for the British Crown to acquire sovereignty over New Zealand. The Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 by representatives of the British Crown and over 500 Māori chiefs, It
19560-429: The government and chair of Cabinet, and provides three kinds of direct support to the prime minister: The Governor-General of New Zealand is the representative of the monarch of New Zealand, currently, King Charles III . The Governor-General performs various ceremonial, constitutional, and diplomatic duties on behalf of the monarch, and is considered the highest-ranking public official in the country. The Governor-General
19723-671: The government and the Chief Executive supports the prime minister of the day to enable this to happen well. The Chief Executive regularly holds meetings with the prime minister to discuss issues that are relevant to the DPMC. The Chief Executive also meets regularly with the Security of the Cabinet to establish the agenda for Cabinet meetings. Heads of the DPMC (formerly Secretary, now the Chief Executive) are: New Zealand’s national security programme has three intended outcomes: National security
19886-650: The government no matter the basis of who is in the government of the day. The current head of the DPMC is made up of these crucial roles; Chief executive, Deputy Chief executive: of the National Security Group, Deputy Chief executive: Policy, Secretary of the Cabinet/ Clerk Of The Executive council, Executive Director, Strategy, Governance and Engagement Group and Child Wellbeing and Poverty Reduction Group, Executive Director: Implementation Unit and Deputy Chief Executive, COVID-19 Group. The clerk of
20049-399: The governor-general as an interim step to a republic, arguing "Electing the Governor-General allows for easier transition to a republic because the populace is used to electing someone as a ceremonial de facto head of state." With the introduction of the Governor-General Act 2010 , Green MP Keith Locke suggested parliament recommend the next governor-general's appointment to the Queen, with
20212-523: The governor-general as to how to act. In 2000, David Bain was granted such an appeal to the Court of Appeal , which in turn was appealed to the Privy Council . With most constitutional functions lent to the Government, the governor-general is particularly invested in a representative and ceremonial role. The extent and nature of that role has depended on the expectations of the time, the individual in office at
20375-412: The governor-general only acts on the advice of the minister of defence and other ministers. In practice, the commander-in-chief is a ceremonial role in which the governor-general will see troops off to and return from active duty and visit military bases in New Zealand and abroad to take part in military ceremonies. The governor-general provides leadership in the community. Governors-general are always
20538-493: The governor-general's community functions have a ceremonial dimension, such as attendance at the official openings of buildings, addresses to open conferences, or launching special events and appeals. The governor-general attends state banquets and receptions, making and hosting state visits, meeting ceremonial groups, and awarding medals and decorations . As well as attending public events, the governor-general hosts many community functions at Government House, Wellington , such as
20701-476: The governor-general. Monarchy New Zealand states "[t]his figure is about one dollar per person per year", about $ 4.3 million per annum. An analysis by New Zealand Republic of the 2010 budget shows the office of governor-general costs New Zealand taxpayers about $ 7.6 million in ongoing costs and $ 11 million for Government House upgrades, a total of $ 18.6 million. These figures are disputed by Monarchy New Zealand, who claim New Zealand Republic "arbitrarily inflated
20864-463: The governor-general. If there is no chief justice available then the next most senior judge of the New Zealand judiciary who is able so to act is appointed as administrator. Prior to the granting of responsible government in 1856, the colonial secretary acted as administrator when a governor was absent. The prime minister may advise the monarch to dismiss (recall) the governor-general. As no New Zealand governor-general has ever been dismissed on
21027-458: The military through participation in military ceremonies both at home and abroad. The country's only currently ranked admiral of the fleet , field marshal and marshal of the air force is King Charles III. The ranks were also formerly held by Prince Philip , the consort of Queen Elizabeth II . Various regiments have also received a royal prefix, such as the Corps of Royal New Zealand Engineers ,
21190-493: The monarch and governor-general and, in New Zealand law, the two offices are fully interchangeable, mention of one always simultaneously including the other. As of 2021 , the current Governor-General is Dame Cindy Kiro . Before 1953 the sovereign's title was the same throughout all his or her realms and territories. It was agreed at the Commonwealth Economic Conference in London in December 1952 that each of
21353-412: The monarch is also crowned in the United Kingdom in an ancient ritual, but one not necessary for a sovereign to reign. Other than a transfer of all royal powers and functions to the new monarch from his or her predecessor, no other law or office is affected, as all references in legislation to previous monarchs, whether in the masculine (e.g. "His Majesty") or feminine (e.g. "the Queen"), continue to mean
21516-436: The monarch or the governor-general reading the speech from the throne ; as they both are traditionally barred from the House of Representatives (the elected component of parliament), this ceremony takes place in the Legislative Council Chamber . Queen Elizabeth II personally opened parliament on seven occasions: January 1954, February 1963, March 1970, February 1974, February 1977, February 1986, and February 1990. Despite
21679-421: The monarch would be bound to implement the prime minister's advice immediately if so advised. Critics (such as supporters of a New Zealand republic ) have described the ability of the prime minister to advise the monarch to recall the governor-general as a flaw in New Zealand's constitutional makeup that gives the governor-general and the prime minister the ability to dismiss one another. They argue that this flaw
21842-471: The monarch's constitutional and ceremonial duties of state on their behalf. The administrator of the territory of Tokelau is a government official appointed by New Zealand's minister of foreign affairs to represent the New Zealand Government—not the monarch personally. As the living embodiment of the Crown , the sovereign is regarded as the personification , or legal personality , of
22005-473: The monarch) by a 60 percent majority of votes in parliament. James argued that the New Zealand public should be given the ability to choose the Queen's representative and that the current system is undemocratic and not transparent. Such a system is not unique: the governors-general of Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands are nominated in such a way. Constitutional law specialist Professor Noel Cox , who
22168-474: The monarch, but now are issued in the name of the incumbent governor-general (instead of following the usual international process of the letters being from one head of state to another). The issuance of passports falls under the royal prerogative, and all New Zealand passports are issued in the monarch's name and remain his property. The sovereign is one of the two components of the New Zealand Parliament . The monarch and governor-general do not participate in
22331-425: The monarchy and creating a republic than in the latter, where the republicanism movement is stronger. Past public opinion polls have shown that while the majority of Australians are in favour of a republic, New Zealanders on average favour retaining the monarchy. Supporters of the monarchy claim that for New Zealand, "monarchy summarises the inheritance of a thousand years of constitutional government and our links with
22494-756: The monarchy argue it costs New Zealand taxpayers only a small outlay for royal engagements and tours and the expenses of the governor-general's establishment. Monarchy New Zealand states "[t]his figure is about one dollar per person per year", about $ 4.3 million per annum. An analysis by New Zealand Republic (a republican advocacy group) of the 2010 budget claimed the office of governor-general costs New Zealand taxpayers about $ 7.6 million in ongoing costs and $ 11 million for Government House upgrades, figures Monarchy New Zealand claimed had been "arbitrarily inflated" by New Zealand Republic. The sovereign of New Zealand also serves as monarch to Cook Islands and Niue , territories in free association with New Zealand within
22657-579: The oath of citizenship laid out in the Citizenship Act . This is done in reciprocation to the sovereign's Coronation oath ; at the coronation of Charles III he made a "solemn promise" to "govern the Peoples of" his realms, including New Zealand, "according to their respective laws and customs". New Zealand's constitution is made up of a variety of statutes and conventions that are either British or New Zealand in origin, and together give New Zealand
22820-588: The office of the governor-general is of little significance, which is wrong, or that it represents a substantial check on the excesses of executive government, which is also wrong. Before a bill can become law, the Royal Assent is required. The governor-general acts on the monarch's behalf and grants Royal Assent (making the bill law). By modern constitutional convention, the Royal Assent is invariably granted, and bills are never disallowed. A law comes into effect from
22983-434: The patrons of many charitable, service, sporting and cultural organisations. The sponsorship or patronage of the governor-general signals that an organisation is worthy of wide support. This follows the tradition of royal patronage established by British monarchs; the practice of issuing royal warrant of appointment has been discontinued in New Zealand. Some governors and their spouses founded or supported new charities ; in
23146-470: The performance of their duties when in New Zealand or acting as monarch of New Zealand abroad. New Zealanders do not pay any money to the King or any other member of the royal family, either towards personal income or to support royal residences outside of New Zealand. Normally, tax dollars pay only for the costs associated with the governor-general as instruments of the King's authority, including travel, security, residences, offices and ceremonies. Supporters of
23309-402: The pre-election period". A vacancy will occur on the resignation, death, incapacity or absence from New Zealand territory of the governor-general. In the absence of a governor-general the chief justice (currently Helen Winkelmann ) becomes the administrator of the Government and performs the functions of the office of governor-general. The administrator is required to take an oath similar to
23472-450: The prefix royal , have received patronage from various monarchs and their families. Royal patronage is the royal individual's decision to make, though the Ministry for Culture and Heritage will help organisations to seek patronage. Despite a similar level of political involvement by the monarchy in both New Zealand and neighbouring Australia, there is less agitation in the former for ending
23635-464: The presence of the chief justice and the members of the Executive Council before the governor-general enters office. The chief justice or other High Court judge then administers the Oath (or Affirmation) of Allegiance, and the Oath (or Affirmation) of Office to the governor-general. From time to time, there have been proposals to elect the governor-general. When first drafted by then Governor George Grey ,
23798-453: The prime minister, and not the governor-general, exercises complete control over the composition of the Cabinet. The governor-general may, in theory, unilaterally dismiss a prime minister, but convention and precedent bar such an action. The governor-general presides over, but is not a member of, the Executive Council of New Zealand . The Executive Council (which comprises all ministers) exists and meets to give legal effect to decisions made by
23961-407: The rare white heron is a significant bird seen only once in a lifetime. In 1953, for her coronation , Elizabeth was given a kiwi feather korowai cloak , which she wore when attending a pōwhiri , or Māori welcoming ceremony, also speaking partly in Māori. References to the monarchy are commonplace in public life in New Zealand and represent one of the most recognisable ways the head of state
24124-421: The recommendation of providing two separate sources of advice to the prime minister. This is the basis of the department. Along with this the DPMC utilise business units and agencies in their work. The 2013 Review of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) reports that the direct accountability of agencies involved has been acknowledged as a respected part of New Zealand Public Services. They list
24287-439: The reigning sovereign of New Zealand. After an individual ascends the throne, he or she typically continues to reign until death, being unable to unilaterally abdicate. Regency Acts allow for regencies in the event of a monarch who is a minor or who is physically or mentally incapacitated. When a regency is necessary, the next qualified individual in the line of succession automatically becomes regent, unless they themselves are
24450-419: The royal family have been present in New Zealand since the late 1800s, their reasons including participating in military manoeuvres or undertaking official royal tours. Usually important milestones, anniversaries, or celebrations of New Zealand culture will warrant the presence of the monarch, while other royals will be asked to participate in lesser occasions. Official duties involve the sovereign representing
24613-479: The same royal line of succession. The monarch, currently King Charles III , lives in the United Kingdom ; however, he and his family have toured New Zealand on occasion. This arrangement emerged during the course of the 20th century. Since the passage of the Statute of Westminster in 1931, the pan-national Crown has had both a shared and separate character, and the sovereign's role as monarch of New Zealand has been distinct to his or her position as monarch of
24776-400: The sovereign (as personification of the state and its authority). The sovereign is responsible for rendering justice for all his subjects, and is thus traditionally deemed the fount of justice . He does not personally rule in judicial cases; instead the judicial functions of the royal prerogative are performed in trust and in the King's name by judges and justices of the peace. The monarch
24939-425: The sovereign's exclusion, members of parliament must still express their loyalty to him and defer to his authority, as the oath of allegiance must be recited by all new parliamentarians before they may take their seat. Further, the official opposition is traditionally referred to as His Majesty's Loyal Opposition , illustrating that, while its members are opposed to the incumbent government, they remain loyal to
25102-439: The sovereign) does not have the power to refuse the Royal Assent to legislation — former law professor and Prime Minister Sir Geoffrey Palmer and Professor Matthew Palmer argue that any refusal of the Royal Assent would cause a constitutional crisis . Constitutional lawyers, such as Professor Philip Joseph, believe the governor-general does retain the power to refuse the Royal Assent to bills in exceptional circumstances, such as
25265-406: The sovereign; these include applying the royal sign-manual and Seal of New Zealand to the appointment papers of governors-general, the confirmation of awards of New Zealand royal honours , and the approval of any change in is New Zealand title. The royal prerogative also extends to foreign affairs: the governor-general conducts treaties , alliances and international agreements on the advice of
25428-464: The support of the House of Representatives." The royal prerogative belongs to the Crown and not to any of the ministers, and the monarch or governor-general may unilaterally use these powers in exceptional constitutional crisis situations, thereby allowing the monarch to make sure that the government conducts itself in compliance with the constitution. There are also a few duties which must be specifically performed by, or bills that require assent by,
25591-412: The throne following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II , on 8 September 2022 in the United Kingdom . The King's elder son, William, Prince of Wales , is the heir apparent . The Treaty of Waitangi between Queen Victoria and Māori chiefs ( rangatira ) was signed on 6 February 1840. This laid the foundation for the proclamation of British sovereignty over New Zealand on 21 May 1840;
25754-406: The time, the wishes of the incumbent government, and the individual's reputation in the wider community. The governor-general will host the monarch or their family, as well as foreign royalty and heads of state, and will represent New Zealand abroad on state visits to other nations. At least once during their term, the governor-general visits the other nations within the Realm of New Zealand: Niue ,
25917-431: The various orders, the governor-general administers most other responsibilities relating to New Zealand honours on the sovereign's behalf (such as investitures). Similar to coats of arms, flags are utilised to represent royal authority. A personal flag for use by the Queen in New Zealand was adopted in 1962. It features the shield design of the New Zealand coat of arms in the form of an oblong or square. Superimposed in
26080-570: The visit schedule and details with the Visits and Ceremonies Office (VCO). Such events have included centennials and bicentennials; Waitangi Day ; the openings of Commonwealth and other games; anniversaries of Māori treaty signings; awards ceremonies; anniversaries of the monarch's accession; and the like. Conversely, unofficial duties are performed by royal family members on behalf of New Zealand organisations of which they may be patrons , through their attendance at charity events, visiting with members of
26243-452: The wider Realm of New Zealand . The New Zealand monarchy is unitary throughout all jurisdictions in the realm, with the headship of state being a part of all equally. As such, the sovereignty of Cook Islands and Niue is passed on not by the governor-general or parliament of New Zealand but through the overreaching Crown itself as part of executive, legislative and judicial operations in all three areas. The self-government provisions for
26406-509: Was appointed on 26 March 2021. The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet was established 1 January 1990. The department was born out of a structural adjustment programme. Prior to this, New Zealand had a simple Westminster-style parliament with a two-party monopoly, which made the structural changes easier to implement. The State Services Commission (renamed the Public Services Commission in 2020) in conjunction with
26569-477: Was narrowly defeated 46–48, being opposed by the government of Harry Atkinson . In 1889, Grey tried again with another bill, which if passed would have allowed for a " British subject " to be elected to the office of governor "precisely as an ordinary parliamentary election in each district." In 2006, political commentator Colin James suggested that the governor-general could be elected (or, more correctly, nominated to
#462537