Margaret Chapman Named Aoraki Woman of the Year at Women’s Night Out

The Aoraki Foundation Women’s Fund was delighted to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women across South Canterbury at the recent Women’s Night Out, held at the Landing Service Building in Timaru to mark International Women’s Day.

A highlight of the evening was the announcement of Margaret Chapman of Geraldine as the 2026 Aoraki Woman of the Year, recognising her lifetime of dedication to rural communities, voluntary service and leadership.

Margaret was selected from an outstanding group of finalists that also included Liz Shea, Pam Gibson and Teressa May, each of whom has made a significant contribution to the region through their work, leadership and service.

For many years Margaret has been a passionate advocate for rural women and the communities they support. Her service includes leadership roles within Rural Women New Zealand, where she served as National President, and as a trustee of the Rural Communities Trust, supporting communities during times of challenge and change. Much of her work has been voluntary, reflecting a deep commitment to strengthening rural connections and opportunities.

Margaret has also played a key role in the Fairlie Mid-Winter Seminars for nearly two decades, helping create opportunities for learning, conversation and connection in rural communities. Her interest in history and storytelling is reflected in her co-authored book Jessie Mackay – A Woman Before Her Time, which celebrates the legacy of the pioneering Kākahu poet.

In 2021 her service was recognised nationally when she was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM).

The Women’s Night Out event brought together women from across the region to connect, celebrate and reflect on the many ways women contribute to the wellbeing of our communities. The evening featured inspiring speakers and created a space for conversation, encouragement and shared celebration.

The Aoraki Foundation Women’s Fund extends its sincere thanks to everyone who supported the event and helped make the evening such a success. We are especially grateful to our co-hosts, the South Canterbury Chamber of Commerce Business Women’s Network, for partnering with us to deliver this celebration of women in our community.

We also thank all those who attended, the speakers, sponsors, volunteers and supporters who continue to champion the work of women across South Canterbury.

The Aoraki Woman of the Year award was created to honour women whose leadership, generosity and dedication make a lasting difference in our region. Margaret Chapman’s life of service is a wonderful example of that spirit, and we are proud to celebrate her contribution.

Aoraki Woman of the Year nominee Liz Shea, left, winner Margaret Chapman and nominee Pam Gibson. Absent: Nominee Teressa May.

2026 Finalists

Liz Shea

Liz Shea has been a longstanding leader within South Canterbury’s community sector, known for her dedication to strengthening organisations that support people across the region.

For more than a decade Liz served as Chief Executive of the Community Trust of Mid and South Canterbury, helping guide the organisation’s work supporting local charities and community initiatives. During her tenure she played a key role in strengthening collaboration among regional funders, helping to re-establish the Funders’ Forum, which brought organisations together to discuss shared priorities and respond more effectively to community needs.

Liz’s contribution extends far beyond her professional role, and she has been an active volunteer across a number of organisations, including Food Rescue Aoraki, Plunket, and the Citizens Advice Bureau, supporting people and families in practical ways.

She has also been part of the Remembrance Army, helping care for and restore war graves at Timaru Cemetery, ensuring the stories of those who served are not forgotten.

Through both her leadership and her volunteer work, Liz has demonstrated a deep commitment to community wellbeing and collaboration.

Pamela Gibson

Pam Gibson is widely respected for her dedication to heritage, research, and community service, with much of her work focused on preserving the stories and history of South Canterbury.

A passionate volunteer archivist at Timaru Girls’ High School, Pam has helped preserve valuable school records and historical materials for future generations. Her interests in genealogy and cemetery research have also supported many people in tracing family histories and understanding the region’s past.

Pam has been a long-standing volunteer in the community in many ways. She has supported the South Canterbury Museum, undertaken extensive work documenting historical plaques throughout the district for the Aoraki Heritage website, and served as chair of the South Canterbury Genealogy Society for a decade.

Working alongside library and museum staff, Pam has contributed to projects such as SCRoll, which records the stories of local people who served in the First World War, and she has also helped gather photographs and accounts of those who served in the Second World War so their stories are preserved.

In addition to her research and heritage work, Pam has quietly supported many community organisations through volunteering, including Meals on Wheels and her local parish.

Her commitment reflects a deep belief that community history, service, and connection matter.

Teressa May

Teressa May has made an exceptional contribution to South Canterbury through both her professional work in emergency services and her extensive volunteer leadership.

As a Hato Hone St John ambulance officer, Teressa works on the front line of community care. Alongside this role she gives her time as a CPR and AED instructor, helping equip people with life-saving skills and confidence.

Her commitment to service extends across a wide range of community organisations. A long-time member of the Timaru Suburban Lions Club, Teressa has served as club president and also taken on leadership roles at district level.

She has supported numerous local initiatives, including helping revive the Timaru Kids Tryathlon and contributing to the Caroline Bay Penguin Camera Project, both projects that bring people together and enrich community life.

Teressa was also a founding member of the Volunteering Mid and South Canterbury steering group, helping strengthen the culture of volunteering across the region.

In addition, she contributes her time to organisations such as WanderSearch Canterbury, the Timaru Christmas Parade Trust, and the Child Restraint Safety Equipment Access and Training Trust, helping families access safe car seat equipment and advice.

Teressa’s work reflects a genuine commitment to service, safety, and community wellbeing.

Thank you so much to The Eye Photography - for capturing our 2026 International Women’s Day Night Out Event.
You can contact her via E: the_eye_photography@outlook.co.nz or Facebook

What a night! The 2025 Impact Event at the Timaru Yacht Club brought together an inspiring crowd to celebrate collective giving and women’s empowerment. Guests enjoyed bubbles, nibbles, dessert, and conversation while hearing stories of resilience, leadership, and community change from panelists Roselyn Fauth, Jan Hide, and Maevi Fleming, hosted by Jo Goodhew, with MC Beth Park.

Despite the absence of guest speaker Vicki Walker due to the storm response, the evening was a resounding success. With ticket prices reduced to $35, community donations, sponsors such as Raine & Horne Timaru, and support from the Timaru Yacht & Power Club, the goal was achieved. Attendees helped decide how to distribute $10,000 in grants to: Pinc & Steel – $3,750 for cancer rehabilitation, Thrive for Life – $3,750 for leadership experiences for Year 13 girls, and Gloriavale Leavers’ Support Trust – $2,500 to help women transition to freedom.

The Women’s Fund now holds $68,000 in its endowment and aims to grow to $500,000 within 10 years to sustainably grant $20,000 annually. Monthly donations from just $5 can help reach this goal. You can donate here on the website or set up a regular bank transfer payment. Thank you to everyone who came along and supported the night to celebrate generosity, connection, and the power of women working together for lasting community impact. Read more here

Thank you to The Eye Photography for capturing the night.

From the 2025 Aoraki Women’s Fund team:
Erin McNaught, Paula Macpherson, Beth Park, and Roselyn Fauth.

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO SUPPORTED US AND THIS EVENT. RAFFLE PRIZE DONORS: Nue Aesthetics, Millie Rose Voucher, The Menswear Timaru, Oxford Restaurant, MECCA, Fresh Choice Geraldine, and Raine & Horne Timaru. VENUE: Timaru Yacht & Powerboat Club. EVENT SUPPORTERS: Eye Photography, and Lavish Treats.

Thank You for an Unforgettable Night of Celebration and Connection

What an incredible evening we shared on Saturday 8 March 2025 at Sopheze on the Bay, as we came together to honour the inspiring women of South Canterbury on International Women’s Day.

Guests were welcomed with delicious canapés and a chance to connect with friends, old and new, before the evening’s programme began. Our heartfelt thanks go to the vibrant and engaging MC Felicity Collier, who guided the night with warmth and energy, and to our powerful guest speakers, Kaitlyn Tucker and Margie Foster, who each shared personal stories that moved and motivated us all. One of the highlights of the evening was celebrating our five exceptional Woman of the Year nominees. Their achievements, courage and dedication to our community were shared with admiration, and we congratulate each one of them. We also extend sincere gratitude to everyone who attended, donated a ticket, entered the raffles, and supported the event in so many ways. Thanks to your generosity, every dollar raised goes directly to the Aoraki Foundation Women’s Fund, helping empower more women and girls across our region.

This night was not just about awards… it was about connection, celebration, and community spirit. We left feeling inspired and uplifted, reminded of what we can achieve when we stand together.

If you have any questions or would like to connect with us further, please reach out at womensfund@aorakifoundation.org.nz. Thank you again for supporting us, and making it a night to remember.

Recognizing Extraordinary Women Who Uplift and Support Their Communities. We were excited to honour women who go above and beyond for the community, supporting and uplifting other women. 2025 Winner, Roselyn Fauth. Finalists: Anna Leger, Kaitlyn Tucker, Sharleyne Diamond, and Polly Rowe.

Roselyn Fauth. Roselyn is a passionate advocate for the arts, historical preservation, and community development, with a strong focus on creating family-friendly and culturally rich initiatives. Through Wu Hoo Timaru, she fosters meaningful connections to local history and culture in accessible and enjoyable ways. She has been a driving force on the CPlay committee, leading fundraising, grant applications, community engagement, and social media efforts, and has dedicated over a decade to the Friends of the Aigantighe Art Gallery, serving four years as president. Roselyn actively uplifts other women by creating inclusive initiatives for mothers and caregivers, championing local female entrepreneurs and artists, and mentoring women into leadership and community roles. “Roselyn’s efforts have directly improved the social, cultural, and recreational fabric of South Canterbury.”

Anna Leger. Anna is deeply engaged with the Pasifika community and serves on the Aoraki Multicultural Board. Known for putting others first, she has offered vital support to Alliance Smithfield workers and those affected by hardship, earning praise for shedding light wherever she can. She uplifts other women by encouraging them to take their place at the table and seek opportunities that build confidence and financial independence. Anna is celebrated as a proud Pasifika woman who challenges stereotypes and leads with compassion and humility. “She embodies what it means to be a Super Woman… always helping in the shadows, never asking for anything in return. She’s humble and wears her heart on her sleeve whilst making you laugh.”

Kaitlyn Tucker. Kaitlyn is a dedicated coach in Muay Thai, helping people, especially women and youth, build confidence and find belonging through sport. Her community work extends to the Buddy Programme, where she supports young people across South Canterbury. Despite the demands of preparing for her world title fight, she makes time to mentor women and girls, encouraging their growth in both the gym and life. Known for her generosity and determination, Kaitlyn inspires others through hard work and selflessness. “She just impacts everyone, whether at Lucky Nine or with her little buddies, she makes everyone feel included and like they matter.”

Sharleyne Diamond. Sharleyne is a tireless advocate for arts, culture, and community connection in South Canterbury. Her work ensures people from all backgrounds have access to creative experiences, support networks, and opportunities to be involved. She leads countless fundraising and event coordination efforts that benefit families and local organisations, earning her recognition as one of the region’s most active community members. Sharleyne champions women in the arts, volunteer, and community sectors, encouraging leadership, inclusion, and self-expression. “Sharleyne embodies the spirit of generosity, leadership, and creativity that defines South Canterbury’s most influential women.”

Polly Rowe. Polly is an energetic and committed supporter of the arts in Timaru, bringing heart and vibrancy to the CBD through her gallery and community art projects. She mentors and encourages fellow artists, organises funding support, and raises money for charities through creative initiatives. Polly creates events that celebrate literature and visual arts while advocating strongly for a sense of community within both the business and arts sectors. A trusted sounding board and generous collaborator, she provides women artists with opportunities, support, and encouragement. “Polly has brought colour, art and a sense of community to the art world in Timaru.”

Thanks to your help in growing our fund, we reached $50,000! After relaunching post-COVID in 2023, the Aoraki Foundation Women’s Fund entered 2024 with big plans, including four events designed to bring our community together and build momentum. Our goal was to grow this fund into a self-sustaining endowment that would generate ongoing income to support women and girls in our region for generations to come. This milestone was only possible because of you… our donors, event attendees, and especially our regular monthly givers. Over the past three years, a small but determined group of women (many of them on our committee) steadily grew the fund from the ground up, raising more than $45,000 through their consistent support. Together, we proved the power of collective giving. Thank you for joining us! If you’re able to give to this fund, we’d love for you to be part of it. You can make a one-off gift or set up a regular contribution from as little as $10 a month. Every dollar counts as we work to elevate women in our community.

Together, we raised $7,500 at our Impact Event! We are so grateful to everyone who made the Aoraki Women’s Fund 2024 Impact Event such a success. Thanks to your incredible support, and after audience voting on the night, the funds were allocated as follows: Cancer Society – Wigs for Women: $2,412, Refugee Settlement Support – Driving Lessons: $2,853, and Family Works – Women’s Self-Care Group: $2,235.

These organisations are providing essential support at a time when many in our region are doing it tough. Your contribution gave them a vital boost, and we know the impact will ripple through our community.

With your support, we raised $10,000 at our Impact Event. This was distributed to: Project Period $2,000, PNAP (Postnatal Adjustment Programme) $2,000, Family Works $1,807, Pinc and Steel $1,518, and Women’s Refuge $2,675. Thank you to an anonymous donor; we were able to donate $5000 for Women's Refuge.