UPDATED 8.02AM A group of high-profile women says rugby is developing an ugly culture that has to change.

Equal Opportunities Commissioner Dr Jackie Blue and sexual violence survivors advocate Louise Nicholas are among 24 who have signed an open letter to New Zealand Rugby offering help to educate players about appropriate behaviour.

LISTEN ABOVE: Equal Opportunities Commissioner Dr Jackie Blue speaks with Rachel Smalley

They say the union's internal investigation into the Chiefs stripper scandal leaves too many questions unanswered, and isn't appropriate for dealing with issues such as respect and basic personal rights.

Louise Nicholas said there's a stench surrounding our national sport.

"And we want to put it out there that that culture can change, and it's about listening to those outside of the rugby union, coming in, supporting and helping them get through this issue that has arisen."

Nicholas said it's clear New Zealand Rugby needs some help.

"The rugby union can't fix everything, they can't do this on their own. They need outside support, and that's what we're saying to them. Bring us in, we're happy to help."

Meanwhile, a meeting between the Human Rights Commission and the New Zealand Rugby Union will take place today.

Jackie Blue says she's had an initial conversation with NZRU boss Steve Tew, where he took responsibility for the way the Chiefs investigation was handled.

Dr Blue told Rachel Smalley there are plenty of examples of culture change in male-dominated industries that the rugby union can look to.

"The New Zealand Police have used Louise Nicholas to help turn their culture around, and they've been very successful, and they've had great leadership on the top with Mike Bush.

"The New Zealand Defence Force are rolling out their programme called Operation Respect - they have knowledge there's too much sexual harassment and bullying."

Dr Blue said she wrote to Steve Tew when the allegations about players' behaviour first emerged.

"We really encouraged him to have an independent inquiry, and unfortunately they didn't, and that's where the whole rails went off.

"The allegations are so serious of sexual assault that really it warranted a person who had independence, who had expertise."

She said there's hope that the rugby culture can change, and Steve Tew's willingness to meet with the Commission is a good first step.

Tew said if they've learnt anything, it's that their players aren't where they need to be.

He told Mike Hosking he's sticking by the decision to use their own counsel to investigate serious allegations made through the media, towards their players.

LISTEN: NZRU boss Steve Tew speaks with Mike Hosking

"Interviewing independent witnesses both male and female who were at the event, and players who were not drinking who were there the entire time. Those accusations were not found to be true, and I can't do anymore than that."

Tew said they're keen to get any advice from the Human Rights Commission as to what they should be doing differently from here forward.