Minister for Women Julie Anne Genter's recents comments about the need for "a new diversity and talent" on New Zealand boards, which see says are largely dominated by "old white men" was the topic of discussion for TVNZ1's Breakfast Club today.
Former National Party leader Don Brash and social media expert Jess Moloney debated the issue, largely agreeing diversity outreach and perspective was beneficial for successful business models, however "just pointing out the problems" won't solve the issue.
Mr Brash said he understood Ms Genter's comments.
"I very strongly believe promotion on merit and I have a daughter, so therefore I want women, particularly, to be given an equal shot at life. Quite frankly they have not been in the past."
"Fundamentally we have to stick to the principle that the best person be the person, male or female or whatever age should be the one who gets the job."
Ms Moloney pointed out balance and diversity on boards has been found to be beneficial.
She said many board members did understand diversity was needed and were willing to connect with a younger demographic.
However, "those relationships have technically never existed because it's been crammed full of middle management who don't want younger people to interact with those older board members, or young females in parlicular".
"So those relationships have never been encouraged from the ground up."
She said encouraging relationships across boards with a diverse range of people was needed, instead of "just pointing out the problems".
Breakfast host Jack Tame said the aim of boards was to bring a range of perspectives and skills, "and I would have thought diversity makes up a part of that", with a range of experience beneficial to the company.
SHARE ME