March 8th is International Women's Day – a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality.
If you're keen to celebrate, grab a friend and check out this list of amazing things that are happening across Aotearoa – including with our own NCWNZ branches and action hubs. Keep checking back regularly as we add more events around the motu!
NCWNZ BRANCH & HUB EVENTS
Wellington
How to talk about climate action – speakers, discussion, and workshop
Hosted by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, National Council of Women New Zealand Wellington branch, Council for International Development, and UN Women Aotearoa New Zealand
Mon, 10 Mar, 5:30-7:30pm
In person, Venue TBC
Cost: FREE
Join fellow climate and gender activists for an engaging event on how to have positive grassroots conversations about climate action.
Come along to hear from fantastic speakers about their experiences within grassroots campaigns and what lessons we could apply to a climate action movement through a gender lens. There will be a chance for open discussion after the presentations, followed by an outcomes-focussed workshop session. This event is the third in a series around Women at the Table on Climate Change.
NORTHLAND AREA EVENTS
Women Leading Into the Future
Hosted by Turner Centre
Sat, 8 Mar, 11.30am
Turner Centre, Kerikeri
Cost: $25
AUCKLAND AREA EVENTS
ACOFI International Women's Day, Auckland
Hosted by African Communities Forum Inc and African Women's Council of Aotearoa
Sat, 1 Mar, 12:00-4:30pm
JetPark Hotel Auckland Airport & Conference Centre
Cost: FREE
Come join us at the JetPark Hotel Auckland Airport & Conference Centre for a day dedicated to honoring and celebrating women from all walks of life.
This event will feature inspiring speakers, business showcasing and networking opportunities to empower and uplift women. Whether you're a professional, student, or stay-at-home mom, this event is for you! Let's come together to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in New Zealand. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect, learn, and grow. See you there!
AGWN joint event: International Women’s Day celebration 2025 – Accelerate Action
Hosted by Te Aka Wāhine o Tāmaki The Auckland Government Women's network, Auckland Transport Women's Network, Te Rōpū Wāhine Auckland Council's Women's Network and PSA Women's Network
Wed, 5 Mar, 10am-12pm
Auckland Transport office, Auckland
Cost: FREE
Keynote Speaker: Karen Chang, Serious Fraud Office Director and Chief Executive
Speakers:
- Parul Sood, Deputy Director, Auckland Council
- Commodore Maxine Lawes, Royal New Zealand Navy
- Tahi Maunsell, Team Leader, Auckland Transport
- Pin Sim, Principal Advisor, Auckland Transport
Get more info and register here
IWD2025: Accelerate Action with NZNWS & Kordia
Hosted by New Zealand Network for Women in Security (NZNWS) in collaboration with Kordia
Fri, 7 Mar, 12:30-2pm
Kordia, Auckland
Cost: $5
Imagine a gender-equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world that's diverse, equitable and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated.
This engaging session will feature inspirational speakers from the security industry sharing insights on diversity, equity, and inclusion, panel discussions on how we can collectively break barriers and accelerate progress, networking and light snacks.
Whether you are a seasoned professional, a student, or someone passionate about shaping a more inclusive future, this event is for you. Let's come together, amplify our voices, and take tangible steps toward gender equality.
Get more info and tickets here
International Women’s Day Art Tour
Hosted by Gus Fisher Gallery and Te Uru
Sat, 8 Mar, 1:30-4:45pm
Gus Fisher Gallery, Auckland
Cost: FREE
Gus Fisher Gallery and Te Uru are excited to present an afternoon of exhibition walkthroughs to highlight the women artists across both galleries in celebration of International Women’s Day.
Begin at Gus Fisher Gallery with a guided tour of Having it all, all, all, led by Curator of Contemporary Art Lisa Beauchamp. At Te Uru, join exhibiting artist Jelena Telecki for a walkthrough of her solo exhibition Oil and Water, followed by a walkthrough of international group exhibition Photosynthesisers: Women and the lens, which will be led by Curator James Gatt. Finish with refreshments at the opening event for Jelena Telecki Oil and Water.
Celebration Micro Changes for Macro Impact
Hosted by TechWomenNZ
Wed, 5 Mar, 12-1pm
Media Design School, Madden Street, Auckland
Cost: FREE for members, $30 for non-members
Join TechWomenNZ for a thought-provoking lunchtime panel event to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025.
This event will explore the theme Micro Changes for Macro Impact – how small, intentional actions can drive meaningful, large-scale change in the workplace and the wider technology industry. We’ll have a diverse panel of speakers, who will each focus on a different type of change – sharing insights, experiences and practical steps to inspire action.
Hear how small changes can lead to significant transformation and gain valuable knowledge on how YOU can contribute to driving positive change in your own career and community.
Expanding Horizons: Global perspectives on progress, opportunity & equality for women
Hosted by UN Women Aotearoa New Zealand
Thu, 6 Mar, 4-6pm
DLA Piper Board Room, PWC Tower, Auckland
Cost: FREE
In collaboration with UNICEF, join us for this inspiring event.
We're excited to share our line-up of speakers:
- Special guest and host: Laura McGoldrick, international women's cricket commentator and advocate
- Vanushi Walters – Director of Cogent Law and a former MP
- Teresa Tepania-Ashton, MNZM – Director of Advocacy & Programmes at UNICEF Aotearoa
- Nele Kalolo – educator and youth advocate
... and more!
Space are limited so please RSVP below to save your seat!
IWD2025: Celebrating Outstanding Women
Hosted by Zonta Club of Auckland
Sat, 8 Mar, 12-3pm
The Navy League of New Zealand, Auckland
Cost: $65
Join us for a celebratory lunch where we recognise four extraordinary women driving change and accelerating action toward gender equality. Be inspired as they share their experiences and insights, leaving you motivated to be part of the movement toward a more equitable future:
Desley Simpson, Deputy Mayor of Auckland
Nicky van den Bos, Chief Executive of Women in Sport Aotearoa
Dr. Karanina Sumeo, former Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner, NZ Human Rights Commission
Shilpa Wilson, Founder of Diamonds in the Rough and recipient of the Zonta Club of Auckland's Cherry Raymond Award
Get more info and tickets here
An Afternoon That Will Change Your Life
Proudly hosted by Hansa Naran
Sat, 8 Mar, 2-5pm
Waiau Pa Hall, Waiau Pa Village
An afternoon of laughs, learning, and life-changing insights with Allie Mooney. She’ll have you laughing out loud while showing you how to improve
relationships and communicate better with your family, friends, and colleagues.
MEN, this isn’t just for the ladies! You NEED to hear what Allie has to say—your partners will thank you later.
Why you shouldn’t miss this:
- Discover how to connect with different personality types
- Reduce conflicts & improve communication skills
- Enjoy an entertaining, fun, and insightful afternoon.
Bring cash for raffles, koha and Allie’s book, Pressing the Right Buttons.
For details and tickets, RSVP to 029 296 2348.
International Womens Day, Make a Chopping Board, Plant Stand or Jewellery Stand
Hosted by The ReCreators - Adult Workshops
Sat, 8 Mar, 2-5pm
West Auckland's RE: MAKER SPACE
Cost: $50
Lets celebrate International Women's Day with a power tools empowerment session. With reclaimed native timber, learn how to make a chopping board, plant stand or jewellery stand.
In this hands-on workshop, you'll gain confidence using different creative tools, jigsaw, sanders and drills. It's a great chance to meet community and chat while working. This session combines skill-building with the satisfaction of crafting something beautiful for your home or loved one.
The ReCreators are on a mission to show the world how to be zero waste reducing and reusing our natural resources. It’s easy, fun, creative, and sustainable. Join us on our journey.
Get more info and tickets here
A world rugby record for NZ
Hosted by Wingspan
Sun, 9 Mar, 11am
North Harbour Stadium, Auckland
Cost: FREE
Join the Team of 280! In March 2025, Wingspan Trust is hosting a world record attempt at North Harbour Stadium to celebrate International Women's Day, and we're inviting you to be part of this groundbreaking event.
Become a rugby legend and break the record of 279 consecutive rugby ball passes with other girls and women's rugby teams — and bring the record home from Wales to Aotearoa.
By joining our Team of 280, sponsoring or supporting us, you'll be contributing to an initiative that seeks to create a more equitable society, where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive. Let's make history together, not just in the record books, but in our community.
Find out more and register here
HAMILTON EVENTS
Hamilton City Library International Women's Day events
Hosted by Hamilton City Library
Various activities from 5-13 March
In-person events at Hamilton City libraries
Cost: FREE
Join us at Hamilton City Libraries - Te Ohomauri o Kirikiriroa for a series of inspiring events in celebration of International Women's Day! Let’s come together to celebrate and support women in our community! Events include:
- Chinese Tea Culture
- Women's View Art Class
- Candle Making
- International Women's Kitchen
- Aromatherapy Head Massage
- Sound Healing and Guided Breathwork
Registration in advance is required for all events.
Check out events and register here
MANAWATU AREA EVENTS
La Fiesta
Hosted by Women's Network Whanganui
8 Feb-8 Mar
Whanganui
Cost: Various
The Women's Network proudly presents this annual festival in Whanganui, New Zealand. Established in 2010, La Fiesta is Aotearoa New Zealand's best and longest running women's fest. In its first 15 years it has attracted around 45,000 participants, not just locally, but from around the world.
2025 represents our sixteenth festival with over 100 activities + events, 55 festival partners and more than 30 venues across Whanganui in 30 days.
Explore art, music, films, workshops, educational talks + lectures, meditation, movement, yoga and a whole heap of fun. It's a great way to build confidence, get motivated + meet awesome new people.
WELLINGTON AREA EVENTS
IWD Impact & Progress Evening
Hosted by UN Women Aotearoa New Zealand and the Women Leaders Institute
Thu, 27 Feb, 4:45–8:00pm
Banquet Hall, Parliament Buildings, Wellington
Join United Nations Women Aotearoa New Zealand and the Women Leaders Institute as New Zealand leads the global celebrations for International Women’s Day! The event will include keynote addresses, fireside chats and networking opportunities.
We’re thrilled to welcome these inspiring confirmed speakers:
- Cassie Roma: Storyteller, Documentarian & Kindness Warrior
- Denise Ewe: Māori Women's Welfare League
- Ranjna Patel ONZM, QSM, JP: Founder of Tāmaki Health & Gandhi Nivas
- Judy O'Brien: Head of Culture, Inclusion & Safeguarding, New Zealand Rugby
- Gerardine Clifford-Lidstone: Secretary for the Ministry for Pacific Peoples
Get more info and tickets here
Wairarapa International Women’s Day Hui 2025
Hosted by UN Women Aotearoa New Zealand and the Women Leaders Institute
Sat, 8 Mar, 9:30am-5:00pm
The Horseshoe Club, Masterton
Cost: Free
Join us in celebrating International Women’s Day 2025 in Wairarapa. This event will bring together leaders, changemakers, and everyday champions from across the region to engage in inspiring discussions, networking, and community-driven solutions.
The Hui acknowledges the mana of the Wāhine of the Wairarapa and asks one question:
“If we could create one powerful change for women in the Wairarapa—one that truly lifts gender equality, embraces Tangata Whenua, celebrates inclusivity, and shines a light on real solutions—what would it be? How can we work together to make it a reality?”
The outcome of the Hui will be to set a plan of strategic action for 2025.
Get more info and reserve tickets here
International Women’s Day: He Tohu tour
Hosted by National Library Wellngton
Fri 7 Mar, 10-10:45am
Te Ahumairangi (ground floor), National Library, Wellington
Cost: FREE
Celebrate International Women’s Day with a tour of He Tohu delivered by our knowledgeable Learning Facilitators.
Learn about the wāhine who signed te Tiriti o Waitangi and the women who helped pave the way for Women’s Suffrage in Aotearoa New Zealand.
More info here (booking not required)
CHRISTCHURCH AREA EVENTS
Eliot Sinclair International Women's Day 2025
Hosted by Eliot Sinclair
Thu, 6 Mar, 4-6pm
Eliot Sinclair Office, Christchurch
Cost: $30
Eliot Sinclair warmly invites you to join us in celebrating International Women's Day. The afternoon will feature a short talk from two leading Ōtautahi women, Leeann Watson and Liz Harris, sharing their journey to success and the importance of empowering women to reach their potential. Chelsea Rapp will be our MC for the event. The session will be followed by Q&A, nibbles and networking.
All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Dress for Success Christchurch. Bring along any good-quality, work-appropriate clothing on the night to support this great cause. Handbags, winter boots, and winter coats are really appreciated at this time of year.
Get more info and tickets here
Zonta Christchurch: International Women’s Day #AccelerateAction
Hosted by Zonta Club of Christchurch-Canterbury
Thu 6 Mar, 5.30-7.30pm
Richmond Club, 75 London Street, Christchurch
Cost: $36
Zonta Club Christchurch is looking forward to hosting this event to mark International Women’s Day and Zonta International Rose Day 2025. The theme this year is #AccelerateAction and we are focusing on celebrating champions for women.
Speakers include:
- Jo Bailey, co-founder of Uniting Canterbury Women
- Gretchen La Roche, upcoming CEO for Creative New Zealand Arts Council Toi Aotearoa (May)
- Meri Gibson ONZM, cancer survivor and motivational speaker
2025 South Canterbury International Women's Day with Aoraki Foundation Women's Fund
Hosted by Aoraki Foundation Women's Fund
Sat, 8 Mar, 6.00-10.30pm
Sopheze on the Bay, Timaru
Cost: $70
Get ready for a night of inspiration and empowerment as we celebrate the incredible women of South Canterbury on International Women's Day, Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Sopheze on the Bay!
Enjoy canapes on arrival and be captivated by our speakers who will share their unique journeys, wisdom, and stories of triumph. It's an evening dedicated to honouring the strength and resilience of women in our community, where we will also announce our Women of the year 2025 as part of our local International Women's Day event.
Get more info and tickets here
DUNEDIN AREA EVENTS
Zonta celebrates.... International Women's Day 2025
Hosted by Zonta Club of Metropolitan Dunedin
Fri, 7 Mar, 7:30-9am
The Heritage Room, Grand Casino, Dunedin
Cost: $60
Join us for fine food, great company, and inspiring guest speakers in the stunning Heritage Room.
IWD belongs to all who care about women's equality, celebrate women's achievement, raise awareness about discrimination, and who take action to forge gender parity. We can't wait to celebrate with you 💜
ONLINE EVENTS
Pacific webinar series: International Women’s Day 2025 - Harnessing the power of women to improve accountability and integrity
Hosted by Office of the Auditor-General of New Zealand and Pacific Association of Supreme Audit Institutions (PASAI)
Thu, 6 Mar, 1:30 pm
Online
Cost: FREE
Our webinar will seek to celebrate and share achievements and to encourage women in audit, and other governance and accountability roles, in the Pacific to play their part to take swift action improve the accountability and integrity system.
We are very excited that our discussion will be chaired by the Right Honourable Helen Clark, former New Zealand Prime Minister and INTOSAI Goodwill Ambassador for auditor independence. Our panellists, from across the PASAI region, will share their stories of actions taken to progress or preserve SAI independence and to stand up for accountability and integrity of the public sector system. Our panel will include Finau Nagera, Auditor-General of Fiji, Esther Lameko-Poutoa, PASAI Chief Executive. We will also have a message from Tsakani Maluleke, Auditor-General of South Africa, Chair of INTOSAI Capacity Building Committee, and Vice-Chair of the INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI) Board.
LIVESTREAM International Women's Day Breakfast at Parliament
Hosted by Zonta Club of Wellington
Thu 6 Mar, 7:30 am
Online
If you can’t make it or you are just not a morning person, the Breakfast at Parliament will be livestreamed and available to watch following the breakfast via YouTube.
The theme for IWD2025 Accelerate Action calls for increased momentum and urgency in addressing the systemic barriers and biases that women and girls face, both in personal and professional lives. This theme resonates with the Zonta International’s goal to create a world where women and girls are empowered. With the right action and support, positive progress can be made towards gender quality.
Consider organising a Watch Party with your friends, family, school, work colleagues and organisations.
Register to receive the livestream link here
Fund Female Founders
Hosted by Ministry of Awesome and PledgeMe
Thu 13 Mar, 12-1pm
Online
Join Our 'Fund Female Founders' Investment Showcase! Funding is one of the most significant hurdles women face when scaling their businesses. And with your support, we're changing that.
We’ve helped 9 women-led companies successfully raise just under $700k across our two previous events, with a 75% success rate of those that launched. We want to do it again for International Women’s Day this year.
This is an online event where we'll be unveiling and celebrating some exceptional campaigns throughout the hour, ranging from investment rounds to rewards-based crowdfunding*.
By registering for this event, you will be in the “room” with these inspiring women, hearing their stories, getting your questions answered, and learning a bit as well.
