New chair for commission

Dame Patsy Reddy has been appointed as the new chair of the Climate Change Commission.

The independent crown entity provides the government with advice, monitoring and reporting to support New Zealand’s transition to a climate resilient and low-emissions future.

“I’m pleased Dame Patsy is joining the commission,” says Simon Watts, Minister of Climate Change. “As former Governor-General, she will come to the role with an extensive and distinguished career in law and governance.”

Dame Patsy, pictured above with Watts, was the 21st Governor-General of New Zealand from 2016-21. In 2014, she became a Dame Companion of the Order of Merit for services to the arts and business, and in 2016 was made a Dame Grand Companion of the Order for services to the state. 

She is currently chair of the NZ Rugby Union and NZ Symphony Orchestra Foundation. She’s also a trustee of the Malaghan Institute and the Aspen Institute NZ.

Dame Patsy’s appointment takes effect in February 2025. In the meantime, commissioner and deputy chair Lisa Tumahai will be acting chair. Dame Patsy’s appointment follows the conclusion of Dr Rod Carr’s term, which ended this month.

Watts has also appointed Felicity Underhill and Devon McLean as commissioners from December 2024 until September 2028, replacing Catherine Leining and James Renwick.

“Ms Underhill has worked in the energy industry for over 20 years and will bring significant experience in decarbonisation of the energy, transport and industrial sectors,” says Watts.

“She has also been actively involved in future fuel-transition programmes around hydrogen.”

“Mr McLean has had a long executive and governance career in the forestry and conservation fields. The commission’s board will benefit from his forestry industry experience and governance expertise.

“I want to thank Dr Carr, Ms Leining and Professor Renwick for their service to the commission.”