Women occupy 50.2% of roles on state sector boards and committees, according to the annual diversity stocktake published by Minister for Women Nicola Grigg.
The result represents the sixth year running that women's participation has surpassed the Government's 50% benchmark. Women now occupy 43.8% of chair positions, compared with 31.7% in 2015 when data on chair roles was first gathered.
Grigg said "the evidence is clear that balanced boards lead to better outcomes and the input of women is vital to New Zealand's productivity, growth and resilience".
The BoardConnector governance database, which has been updated, now contains profiles of more than 1,100 women seeking appointments to boards. Half of those registered are classified as experienced-level candidates.
The Government is working with both public and private sectors on initiatives to support women in governance, including partnerships with the Institute of Directors and other organisations to expand board opportunities.