Governor-General could be first Asian

Speculation is mounting that the next Governor-General will be of Asian descent - a first for New Zealand. Judge Anand Satyanand, a former Ombudsman, is being tipped as the likely replacement for Dame Silvia Cartwright, whose term ends on August 4.

Mr Satyanand, who would not comment, is of Indo-Fijian descent. The 61-year-old was born and raised in Auckland.

Other names being touted are Sir Tipene O'Regan, former All Black captain Sir Wilson Whineray, former Prime Minister Jim Bolger, and former National minister Sir Doug Graham.