International Women's Day

International Women's Day is a globally recognised observance celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of women. It is a platform for people everywhere to demonstrate their commitment to gender parity. The day not only commemorates the milestones women have made, but also brings attention to ongoing struggles and challenges. It serves as a call to action for accelerating gender balance in every field.

The observance of International Women's Day has its roots in the early 20th century labor movement, emerging from women's struggles for fair working conditions and voting rights. Specific to New Zealand, the day holds significant weight as New Zealand was the first country in the world to enfranchise women in 1893. Additionally, New Zealand has had three female prime ministers to date, showcasing its forward-thinking attitude toward gender equality. These landmarks in New Zealand’s history are often focal points during International Women's Day, inspiring conversations about the progress made and work still to be done.

International Women's Day in New Zealand is marked by various events and initiatives, often hosted by community organizations, businesses, and educational institutions. These include public talks, workshops, and celebrations highlighting women’s contributions to New Zealand and beyond. New Zealand observes International Women's Day on the same day as the rest of the world, which is the 8th of March each year. This day provides an opportunity not just to celebrate, but also to educate and engage on issues of gender parity.