There's been a big drop in women's representation, in the Government's new science leadership roles

It's appointed the board members of the three new Public Research Organisations, replacing several Crown research institutes.

The National Council of Women, highlights the existing boards collectively had a roughly 50-50 gender split compared to a now 80-20 split.

Wellington Branch President Aleisha Amohia, says it's representative of this Government's stance on gender equity.

She says we don't even have a Minister for Women in Cabinet, and there's been a push back against diversity, equality and inclusion initiatives.