Inclusive workplaces

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3. Inclusive workplaces

The focus on inclusive workplaces centres on increasing diversity in industries, particularly promoting the participation of underrepresented groups, such as Māori, Pacific, Tangata Whaikaha and women, in the MEL industries. Inclusion means creating environments where everyone—regardless of gender, ethnicity, or background, can thrive. This section emphasises actions to promote gender equity and diverse representation, aiming for more balanced workforce participation.

Industry Initiatives:

Women in Automotive New Zealand: A program aimed at increasing the recruitment and retention of women in the automotive sector through mentorship, networking, and support for leadership roles.
Diversity Agenda – Engineering New Zealand: The Diversity Agenda is a joint initiative by Engineering New Zealand, the New Zealand Institute of Architects, and ACE New Zealand. It aims to increase diversity and inclusion within the engineering and architecture professions. Initially focused on increasing the number of women in these fields, the initiative has expanded to encompass a broader range of diversity and inclusion goals.

Regional Priorities:

Bay of Plenty (MBIE, 2023a, p.36): “Develop a business case for a Tuakana-Teina programme that ensures rangatahi Māori flourish with the guidance of pakeke and kaumātua.”
Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) (Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment [MBIE], 2023c, p.10): “Women, particularly younger and Māori women, are more likely to be underutilised in part-time or casual employment. Women also face slower wage growth compared to men. Initiatives will focus on addressing underutilisation and ensuring better wage equality for Māori women.”
Canterbury (MBIE, 2023b, p.24): “Support programs that aim to increase diversity in the manufacturing workforce, particularly for Māori, Pacific peoples, and women. Develop positive case studies showcasing the success of Māori workers, employers, and business owners in manufacturing. Industry profiles will be created to bring a deeper understanding of Māori contributions to the sector.”
Tai Tokerau (Northland) (Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment [MBIE], 2023d, p.46): “Women’s employment has been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, with a greater absolute increase in Work Ready recipients for women than men.“
Waikato (Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment [MBIE], 2023e, p.51): “Develop a corporate cultural capability/humility program to better equip employers to recruit and retain the growing rangatahi Māori workforce.”