Dame Patricia Lee Reddy (born 17 May 1954), commonly known as Patsy Reddy, is a New Zealand lawyer and businesswoman who served as the 21st Governor‑General of New Zealand from 2016 until 2021. Her background spans commercial law, governance and public service, and she has been recognised with several national honours.

Early career and background

Reddy trained and practised in law before moving into governance roles in the public and private sectors. Over decades she accumulated experience as a director and adviser, bringing legal, commercial and governance expertise to boards and public institutions. That blend of law and business prepared her for the vice‑regal office, which often calls for both constitutional knowledge and community engagement.

Governor‑General of New Zealand (2016–2021)

Appointed in 2016, Reddy served as the monarch’s representative in New Zealand for a five-year term. The Governor‑General performs constitutional and ceremonial duties on behalf of the sovereign, acts as a non-partisan figurehead, and supports national and local communities through formal and informal engagements.

Role and responsibilities

  • Representing the Crown at state occasions and ceremonies.
  • Giving Royal assent to legislation passed by Parliament.
  • Appointing Ministers and, on advice, the Prime Minister and other office‑holders.
  • Opening and proroguing sessions of Parliament and hosting visiting heads of state.

Honours and public profile

Reddy has been recognised with national honours, reflected in postnominals such as GNZM, QSO and DStJ. Her vice‑regal tenure emphasised accessibility, public service and the ceremonial duties of the office. As a high‑profile public figure, she played a visible role in national commemorations and community initiatives during her term.

The office of Governor‑General remains an important constitutional link between New Zealand and the monarchy; holders of the post typically bring varied professional backgrounds. Reddy’s legal and governance experience is an example of how private‑sector skills are often applied in public service at the highest representative level. For more about the position, see the Governor‑General of New Zealand resources.