From President Janet - Oct 25

Tena koutou katoa

The last month has been a very busy time with local government elections having taken place, our submissions to the People’s Select committee on Pay Equity, BPW NZ National forum online, usual taskforce meetings and international meetings. Celebrations come into this space with Vicky Mee’s investiture.

Across the country there has been a shift back to men being elected. In particular, I noticed women mayor candidates have lost out to men in several cases. This is disappointing and it seems a mindset in communities becoming less empathetic and pushing back on wellbeing projects in the community. Up to 60% of local women’s organisations are potentially at risk of folding or not being able to provide the services due to lack of funding globally and it is following a similar path in Aotearoa New Zealand.

I congratulate the BPW NZ members who have been successful in this election. BPW Upper Hutt past presidents of BPW NZ Angela McLeod and Hellen Swales are both elected as councillors. BPW Huntly & Districts member Carolyn Eyre is also re-elected unopposed. We also have two past members elected: ex BPW Kaitaia Felicity Foy and ex BPW CHB Alison Amboy. Alison credits BPW with sparking her interest in advocacy and politics through the resolutions CHB proposed in 2024 identified by Alison – access to sexual health services for foreign students. 

Your national executive as well as BPW CHB & Franklin all presented to the People’s Select Committee on Pay Equity – a very strong representation by BPW and it was well received. We continue to provide BPW NZ members with opportunities to attend online taskforce meetings in NZ and globally. 

A celebration is always exciting to attend and the investiture of Past BPW NZ President Vicky Mee at Government House Auckland was a special event. Being congratulated by Governor General Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro on Vicky’s services to women and business, was an honour for Vicky receiving the MNZM. It was a privilege to be present along with Vicky’s family to witness this occasion.

We had a hugely successful National forum online. Speedy sessions brought out the ideas that were explored. Club reports were a highlight showcasing the work being done around the motu. Your executive has a lot of information now to plan for the future.

Ngā mihi nui

Janet