Whowill be the new Governor-General?

A new Governor-General will be announced before the month is up. Current head of state representative Sir Jerry Mateparae will finish his five-year term on 31 August.

Governor-Generals are appointed on the recommendation of the prime minister. They tend to be high-ranking individuals who have contributed to the country, and often have knowledge of the law.

Mateparae was not a typical pick. Some called it an inspired choice that seemed to resonate positively with the public.

We’ve put together some contenders.

Frontrunners

Dame Jenny Shipley is a former prime minister, which would be a point of difference to previous appointments.

And in the same vein, Jim Bolger would be a contender.

Fresh off her spy agency review, we have Dame Patsy Reddy: a lawyer, chief Crown negotiator for Treaty settlements and state review expert.

Former deputy prime minister Sir Don McKinnon was said to be in the running last time. Could this be his chance?

Chief Justice Dame Sian Elias may be able to retire her wooden gavel.

The wildcards

Crowd favourites: Exsoldier Willie Apiata, film director Sir Peter Jackson (he may be a bit busy), Richie McCaw.

Sport stars: Former netball coach Dame Lois Muir, health advocate Sir John Kirwan, sevens rugby coach Sir Gordon Tietjens, Race Relations Commissioner Susan Devoy.

Glam squad: Director Dame Jane Campion, opera singers Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and Dame Malvina Major.

Politicians: Fran Wilde, former deputy prime minister Sir Michael Cullen, diplomat Jim McLay.