New Zealand

'Women on Boards' cancels McVeagh annual prize-giving

07:18 am on 15 March 2018

A group promoting diversity in boardrooms has cancelled the sponsorship of a major prize-giving by embattled law firm, Russell McVeagh.

Women on Boards chair Julie Hardaker Photo: RNZ

The law firm sponsored last year's annual prize-giving for the group 'Women on Boards', part of the umbrella body for company directors and boards.

Russell McVeagh is holding an external review into two senior lawyers allegedly assaulting student interns at its Wellington office two years ago, and separate revelations of alcohol-fuelled sex in a boardroom.

Group chair Julie Hardaker, a Hamilton lawyer and former mayor, said it was not appropriate for the law firm to continue the arrangement in light of the recent controversy.

All six of the country's law schools have cut ties with the firm.