Hon Nanaia Mahuta
Minister of Youth Affairs, Minister of Local Government, Minister of Customs, Associate Minister for the Environment,
Associate Minister of Tourism,
MP for Tainui
31 March 2008
Media Statement
Census ‘food for thought’ for young women
Local Government and Youth Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta today said the 2008 Census of Women’s Participation should
motivate young women to keep driving for parity.
Nanaia Mahuta welcomed the release of the Census – a biennial report produced by the Human Rights Commission - which
provides a benchmark on the position of New Zealand women within areas of the public and private sectors, particularly
in business leadership.
“The Census gives us all food for thought, and a base to ensure the best way forward,” said Nanaia Mahuta.
Among the Human Rights Commission’s key points is the need for a greater whole-of-government approach to reach the
self-imposed target of 50 per cent representation by women on state sector boards and committees by 2010. Latest
statistics shows New Zealand women have a 42 per cent participation rate.
“While there is clearly a message that more needs to be done to achieve greater equality for women all round, it is also
heartening to note that women hold the highest constitutional positions in New Zealand.
“This should be a source of motivation for young women who are starting out in their careers. We need to provide them
with the best opportunities possible, so they have the confidence to push for leadership roles in future,” said Nanaia
Mahuta.
“I’m also heartened that for the first time, there is information on the status of Maori women, which is being
discussed. There is still some way to go to engage further with Maori women, but with statistics showing that Maori
women make up 42 per cent of representation at board level and 27 per cent in management, it is a positive start.”
Nanaia Mahuta said the Labour-led government is committed to advocating for women and increasing their participation in
leadership roles.
“As Minister of Local government, I realise there needs to be more concrete action taken to increase the number of women
in decision-making positions in the local government area, and I welcome feedback on the ways this could be achieved,”
said Nanaia Mahuta.
“The Labour-led government is a great supporter for women’s participation in the work force, and ensuring they have what
is needed to be able to do this, through initiatives like the “Working for Families” package that assists families in
meeting the costs of childcare, and 20 hours free education for three and four-year-olds. We are committed to the drive
for greater equality for women across all sectors of society.”
ENDS