A Centennial High Tea Luncheon to mark 100 years of Rural Women NZ in Martinborough, will be held at Parehura on the 28th September.
Rural Women NZ (RWNZ) was formed in July 1925 by farmers’ wives who had accompanied their husbands to Wellington to attend the Farmers’ Union Conference.
They shared their hardships of living in isolation, with limited access to the services and
opportunities commonly available in urban areas.
As a result a group of 16 women founded the Women’s Division of the Farmers’ Union (now RWNZ) to improve support systems.
100 years on, RWNZ continues to empower women at the heart of rural communities. With regional branches and groups across the country providing connection and support, we are recognised as a leader across the rural sector and provide a trusted voice on issues affecting rural communities.
“We are looking forward to celebrating this milestone for Rural Women New Zealand. We are sharing the occasion with Wairarapa members, people who share our activities and interests in our region. We are also inviting those with past association with RWNZ and Women’s Division Federated Farmers(our previous name). There are many descendants of women who were foundation members of our organisation still in our region whom we are hoping will be able to join us on this day” says Jocelyn Colton, President of the Martinborough branch RWNZ. The Wairarapa and the Martinborough branch members meet monthly to share time together, provide support, and use our National network to advocate for rural communities”
The event is being held at Parehura, 52 New York St Martinborough. 28th September 2025, 12 midday.
If you wish to attend contact Liz Hancock by the 18th September 027 486 0845 johnlizhanc@gmail.com
