Community role

The Governor-General provides non-partisan community leadership.

The Governor-General is the patron of many charitable, service, sporting, cultural and community organisations. This follows the tradition of royal patronage established in the United Kingdom, although the practice of granting Royal Warrants and Royal Charters has not been continued in New Zealand.

Some of the Governor-General's community engagements also have a ceremonial dimension, including the official opening new facilities, addresses to conferences, the presentation of awards, or the launch of special events.

Each year, the Governor-General attends several hundred functions at Government House or throughout the country. Regular regional visits present an opportunity to meet New Zealanders from all walks of life.