Still fighting hard for women's rights

New Zealand women were pioneers in fighting for their rights, and now they are working to help women around the world strive for equality.
March 12 marks the 100th year of International Women's Day, and the Hawke's Bay Branch of the National Council of Women is celebrating with a breakfast that will raise funds to educate women in the Marshall and Solomon Islands.
"We have been supporting women there for several years, and they are starting to make some real progress," Bay branch committee member and Graduate women Hawke's Bay president Rosalie Sutherland said.
"We have got women running for offices and mayoralties, and that's all come from giving young girls an education. Some women can now vote and also men there are beginning to realise it's best when they work together on projects."
The aim of International Women's Day is to recognise the achievements of women and the advancement of women's rights as well as noting gaps in gender equality both internationally and at home.
"It is important to celebrate the progression of women's rights in New Zealand, we were the first to give women the vote, though we have stalled a bit," Ms Sutherland said.
"We are showing gaps, particularity in the workforce, so it's important for us to acknowledge that."
March 12 is also the launch of a new United Nations agency called UN Women which combines all its former women's groups.
The breakfast will be held at Heavey Hall in Napier from 8.30am. Tickets are $10 at the door. To attend call Kath on 06 843 9080.