A former National staffer says diversity is an aspect of the Party's list ranking selections.

Dunedin-based List MP Michael Woodhouse said 'diversity won' - and told the Otago Daily Times he lost a contest between diversity and experience.

But he denies the paper's reports he also said being male cost him his spot.

Former staffer Ben Thomas says there are several ways to get into caucus, and Woodhouse fit none.

"The first one is to be part of his Cabinet considerations, the second one is to help with the diversity, and the third way is to win an electorate seat."

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