Suffrage Day - On September 19 1893, New Zealand became the first nation in the world to grant women the right to vote

Suffrage Day - On September 19 1893, New Zealand became the first nation in the world to grant women the right to vote

In 1893, New Zealand became the first nation in the world to grant women the right to vote. Suffrage Day (September 19) is a significant day in New Zealand’s history and celebrating the day provides an opportunity for individuals and organisations to honour New Zealand’s suffrage achievements and look for ways to make further progress to benefit women.

This year on September 19th, Suffrage Day, the Women's Empowerment Principles National Committee of New Zealand has invited Theresa Gattung, co-founder of worldwomen.org.nz, to be the keynote speaker at the White Camellia Awards ceremony, which will be held at Government House. Theresa will talk about pay equity, SheEO and the projects worldwomen.org.nz is focussing on to further support women of this and future generations. The other guest speaker will be the Governor General, The Rt Hon Dame Patsy Reddy.

The White Camellia Awards ceremony is held every year by the Women's Empowerment Principles with awards being given out in acknowledgement of companies most successfully striving to implement gender equality in their workplaces. 


Image: "Kate" Sheppard was the most prominent member of the New Zealand's women's suffrage movement and was the country's most famous suffragette.