As International Women’s Day approaches, we speak with Port Waikato’s Fiona Gower, third-generation member and former National President of Rural Women New Zealand. From informal dinner groups in Mercer to representing New Zealand at the United Nations, Fiona has seen firsthand the power of women backing each other.
What first inspired you get involved with RWNZ, and what keeps you motivated today?
I grew up with Women’s Division, as it was called before 1999. Mum used to take us along to “Division” meetings. Later, when I became a new mum and wasn’t working, I needed to use my brain, so I joined my local branch and eventually started one for younger women.
Those women were incredibly supportive of me, from being a young mum right through to becoming National President. It’s women like that who keep me involved, and it’s now my turn to give back and help others grow. I’m currently interim Greater Waikato Regional Leader and would love to see more women step into leadership roles.
What does Rural Women NZ do locally in North Waikato?
Greater Waikato covers a large area, including North Waikato. There’s a small branch in Te Kauwhata and Onewhero, but many members don’t belong to branches. That’s why we’ve set up informal dinner groups in Mercer every three to four months. They are open to all women, not just members, to connect and support one another.
Beyond social connection, we are a strong voice on issues affecting rural communities such as health, education, business, connectivity, the rural environment and social challenges.
Our charitable give-back is a big part of what we do. We offer bursaries and grants, run an Adverse Events Fund for those affected by floods or cyclones, and support causes such as ovarian cancer, leptospirosis and local schools. Often it involves food: providing it, sharing it, or fundraising with it. We also work closely with Rural Support Trust during tough times.
For rural businesswomen, we run the Activator Programme, which is a friendly “Dragons’ Den” for start-ups, and the Rural Women NZ Business Awards for established businesses.
What role do dinner groups and informal meet-ups play?
Connection is one of our key pillars. Women are often working hard on farm or off farm, raising families and supporting everyone else. Our dinners and events give them space to step out, recharge and build networks.
Those catch-ups often spark new ideas, collaborations and friendships. They remind women they’re not alone.
What are the biggest challenges rural women face right now?
The withdrawal of services is a big one: we’re travelling further for healthcare and other essentials. Connectivity has improved, thanks to advocacy, but there’s still work to do.
Social isolation remains a challenge. Ensuring women have strong support networks is vital.
What does celebrating 100 years of Rural Women NZ mean to you?
As a third-generation member and past National President, I’m incredibly proud. It’s a legacy organisation with a strong history of making real differences in rural communities. Reaching 100 years is something special.
What can people expect form the “Gumboots and Glamour” Centennial Ball in Tuakau?
Fun! Rural people are versatile. We can go from farm to flash. That’s why it’s called “Gumboots and Glamour.” Think redbands with ballgowns, jackets and ties with shorts. LaValla’s dinner will be spectacular, followed by plenty of dancing.
The UN has recognised the International Year of the Farming Woman. Why is that significant here?
So many women in North Waikato are deeply involved in farming and rural businesses. This recognition celebrates the contribution we make, not just to our families, but to the economy and our communities.
You have spoken at the United Nations. How do NZ rural women compare globally?
Representing RWNZ at the UN in New York was a huge highlight. While we still have work to do in supporting rural women and girls, New Zealand is ahead of many countries. That perspective was eye-opening.
What opportunities lie ahead for rural women, and how can they get involved?
There are real opportunities in diversifying on-farm businesses and using improved connectivity to work or study from home.
We’d love more women to join us, the membership is just $50 a year www.ruralwomennz.nz/join-us. You can also follow the Waikato Rural Women NZ Facebook page or contact me directly: [email protected], 0274283884.
