Australia's former foreign minister Julie Bishop has challenged all political parties to recruit more women ahead of a dinner where she will address National MPs.
National leader Simon Bridges with Australia's former foreign minister Julie Bishop at the party's caucus retreat in Hamilton. Photo: RNZ / Chris Bramwell
Ms Bishop - a conservative politician and a vocal supporter of women in politics - was invited by National to speak at the party's caucus retreat in Hamilton today.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the event, Ms Bishop was asked whether National needed to recruit more women.
Ms Bishop said she had "no doubt" it was already on the party's agenda.
"I believe we need to see more women in all aspects of public life and I certainly want to see more women representing the Liberal Party [her political party] in politics in Australia.
"I'm sure the National Party feels the same way."
National leader Simon Bridges agreed.
Of its MPs, National has 19 women and 35 men. Labour has 21 women and 25 men.
"We want to see more women attracted to politics generally.
"On all sides, not just on the centre-right side, but all sides of politics.
"The greater the diversity of voices, the more representative the parliament is, I think the better the outcomes."
Ms Bishop said she was "absolutely delighted" to have been invited to share her experiences and potential lessons with New Zealand's opposition party.
"It's great to be among friends. We have many experiences to share."
She congratulated Mr Bridges on his role as leader of the opposition and Paula Bennett as deputy.
"It's one of the toughest jobs in Australia, so I'm assuming that applies here in New Zealand."
Mr Bridges said the party was very privileged to get to hear from Ms Bishop.
"We're really looking forward to ... getting some insights from her about what's happening internationally and what that will mean for both the National Party and New Zealand."