International Women’s Day 2026
Celebrating the Spirit, Strength and Service of South Canterbury Women
The historic Landing Service Building in Timaru was filled with warmth, connection, and a sense of shared purpose as women from across South Canterbury gathered for the annual International Women’s Day – Night Out. Hosted by the Aoraki Women’s Fund in partnership with the South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce Business Women’s Network, the event once again proved to be a vibrant celebration of women’s leadership, resilience, and contribution to community life.
From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was one of joyful reunion and collective pride. The evening opened with a stirring performance by the Craighead Diocesan School kapa haka group, whose harmonies, poi, and haka brought a powerful cultural grounding to the celebration. Their performance captured the spirit of the occasion—honouring heritage, uplifting women, and celebrating the richness of community.
The evening’s speakers offered moving and personal reflections on identity, history, and the women who shaped them. Renee Walker spoke candidly about her upbringing and the moments—sometimes challenging, sometimes inspiring—that shaped her into the woman she is today. Her story resonated deeply with the audience, reminding many of their own journeys and the quiet influences that forge resilience and purpose.
Roselyn Fauth, herself named Aoraki Woman of the Year in 2025, shared a very different but equally powerful story: her quest to understand the pioneering women of South Canterbury. Motivated by her own award recognition, Roselyn embarked on a journey of discovery, uncovering stories of women whose courage, ambition, and determination helped shape the region. Her reflections served as a reminder that today’s achievements stand on foundations built by generations of extraordinary women.
The pinnacle of the event was the presentation of the Tenika Reihana Trophy to the 2026 Aoraki Woman of the Year, a moment met with warm applause and genuine admiration. This year’s honour was awarded to Margaret Chapman of Geraldine, recognising her exceptional lifetime of service to rural communities and voluntary leadership.
Margaret’s contribution to South Canterbury spans decades. Her dedication to Rural Women New Zealand, including serving as National President, her work as a trustee of the Rural Communities Trust, and her long-standing involvement in the Fairlie Mid‑Winter Seminars reflect a commitment to strengthening rural connection and wellbeing. Her passion for history and storytelling shines through in her co‑authored book Jessie Mackay – A Woman Before Her Time, ensuring the voices of pioneering women continue to be heard. Her ONZM appointment in 2021 stands as national recognition of her impact.
The award also acknowledged the remarkable achievements of fellow finalists Liz Shea, Pam Gibson, and Teressa May. Liz’s leadership in community funding and tireless volunteer work, Pam’s dedication to heritage preservation, and Teressa’s frontline service with Hato Hone St John and extensive volunteer leadership each reflect outstanding contributions to the region. Collectively, these women embody the generosity, service, and strength that the Aoraki Woman of the Year Award seeks to honour.
As the evening drew to a close, guests lingered—sharing stories, reconnecting with friends, and celebrating the spirit of International Women’s Day. The event was beautifully captured by The Eye Photography, preserving the smiles, conversations, and vibrant energy of the night.
Once again, the Women’s Night Out stood as a testament to the strength of South Canterbury women and the communities that support them.