National's Leader Christopher Luxon wants to change the centre-right's reputation of caring about the economy more than those in poverty or the environment.
He made the comments during a speech at National's caucus retreat in Queenstown.
He says the lower rungs of society are breaking down and people don't have fair opportunities.
Social activist and former Green MP Sue Bradford says she was "astounded" by the comments.
She spoke to Corin Dann.
