WELLINGTON, Oct 21, 2021 (BSS/AFP) - Social justice advocate Dame Cindy Kiro

was sworn in Thursday as New Zealand's governor-general, becoming the first
Maori woman to hold the largely ceremonial role.

   As governor-general, she will act as the representative in New Zealand of
the head of state Queen Elizabeth II.

   Kiro, an academic with a long history of promoting indigenous and
children's rights, vowed to connect with marginalised communities affected by
the Covid-19 pandemic.

   "We are living in a period of immense uncertainty and anxiety," she said
at a ceremony in parliament.

   "I will reach out to communities marginalised in our society, whether
because of disability, homelessness, discrimination addiction or mental
health issues."

   Kiro said she also planned to reach out to migrants, refugees and "the
unsung heroes in our community".

   The 63-year-old, whose mother was Maori and father English, said she was
proud to be bringing her dual heritage to the post.

   The governor-general's role is largely ceremonial, involving swearing in
lawmakers, bestowing honours and welcoming visiting dignitaries.