Girl Guiding New Zealand apologises for ‘sexist’ advice telling girls to 'dress classy'

Girl Guiding NZ has apologised for “sexist” advice posted on Facebook telling young girls to “dress in a classy manner” and “accept compliments graciously”.

The group has come under fire from mothers who have criticised the organisation for offering “outdated” advice.

A list entitled “15 things your daughter should know before she turns 18” was posted on social media a week ago and advised parents what young girls should know.

It included directions such as “learn the joy in cooking”.

According to Stuff, a number of mothers left comments on Girl Guiding NZ's page expressing their disappointment over the organisation's post.

Wellington mum Adele Child says she commented on the post a week ago.

"Young women (and men) should wear whatever they feel comfortable in," she says.

The list in full

15 things to make sure your daughter knows before she turns 18

1. How to change a tyre, check oil, and use basic power tools.

2. How to accept a compliment graciously.

3. When meeting someone new, shake hands firmly and make eye contact.

4. The joy of cooking.

5. Do not waste your time in a relationship with someone (boyfriend, friend, etc.) who doesn't respect you and treat you as a priority.

6. When you've had a bad day, turn up the music and dance until you feel better.

7. You don't get anywhere in life by speaking negatively of others. Avoid gossip and backbiting.

8. Be a good friend. Listen well. Friendship is a fine art and a true friend is a treasure.

9. Your sisters are your best friends for life. Forgive and love and protect each other no matter what.

10. Beauty and attractiveness are determined more by behaviour than appearance.

11. Learn about things for yourself. how to do your own research. Form your own opinions.

12. Trust your instincts. If you have a 'gut feeling' about something, listen to it.

13. Dress in a classy manner.

14. Never let someone (including yourself!) tell you you can't do something.

15. If you choose to pursue something, always do it to the fullest. You'll never regret working hard for something.

Auckland mum Sisilia Eteuati, who was a Girl Guide in Samoa in her youth, says the post was not in line with the organisation's aims to empower young women.

She said: "I love the Girl Guides but telling girls to 'dress classy' is not ok. Not only is it sexist but it also is extremely privileged and classist."

Telling girls to graciously accept a compliment can be problematic too, she said.

"Sometimes compliments can be condescending. Sometimes what one person think is a compliment will be seen as offensive and actually not that useful.”

The post has since been removed from Facebook and the group has issued an apology.

A spokeswoman told the publication: “We regret sharing this post as the content does not reflect GirlGuiding NZ's views. This is an unfortunate mistake that has slipped through the cracks, and by no means the type of content we usually share.”

Girl Guiding NZ added it has taken follower’s comments on board and is hoping to create a list which reflect the views of 2018 better.