Gender inequality is a "wicked" problem that can't be changed purely through policy.

That's according to the National Council of Women which has issued a white paper that's found females are treated as second class citizens in New Zealand.

The paper shows women are under-represented in positions of power.

Women only make up 32% of our sitting members of Parliament, and the percentage of women on the boards of the top 100 companies on NZX sit at 14%.

The paper is calling on the Government to produce a plan of action for gender equality.

National President of the National Council of Women, Rae Duff, said although 61% of women leave university with a qualification, they're still taking the kind of courses that lead them to lower paid jobs when compared to tertiary qualified men.

The council says the issue is complex, and is calling for a multi-faceted approach to the problem.

It's also calling on New Zealanders to change the culture around sexism and gender limiting stereotypes.

Duff says we need to change the way we perceive both men and women.

"You know, grown men don't cry, things like that, we need to change that kind of culture so people are aware of the stereotypes we have."

12% of women cite childcare as a reason they're unable to find work.

No men cite this as a problem.