The government is committing $300,000 to a Women in Horticulture initiative aimed at supporting career progression.
Associate Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Women Nicola Grigg said the initiative is about empowering women in the horticulture industry with funding that will support networking and career progression.
“Women currently make up around half of the horticulture workforce, but only 20% of leadership roles, which is why initiatives like this are so important, Grigg said.
The Women in Horticulture initiative will deliver workshops and professional development sessions enabling women to upskill and reach their full potential.
“It also provides the sector an opportunity to positively influence industry attitudes by looking for ways we can encourage women to remain in and be recognised within horticulture.”
Grigg said women are affected by the gender pay gap and disproportionate retirement earnings compared to men.
“The government has committed $300,000 over three years to the Women in Horticulture initiative to making NZ a world leader for gender equity in this space.
“Our government is focused on growing the economy and supporting our primary industries so that Kiwis can get ahead.
“As Minister for Women I want women to succeed, and this programme will support this objective.”
