To mark 125 years of women’s suffrage Porirua City wants to celebrate 25 wāhine who are making a positive difference in our city.

You can nominate an influential wāhine of Porirua to attend the Miromoda Runway Show as a VIP guest. There are 25 places available. Nominations are open from 1 to 15 June and the Miromoda Show is on 30 June at Pātaka Art + Museum.

125 years ago New Zealand women were vigorously campaigning for the right to vote and in September 1893 won that right. This made New Zealand the first self-governing country to grant women the vote, and events are being held nationwide this year to mark that significant milestone.

Councillor Anita Baker says celebrating local wāhine in 2018 serves as a thank you to the brave women from New Zealand’s history who paved the way for the rights and freedoms we enjoy today.

“Our city is full of influential, successful women who help make it the special place it is. We want to celebrate those people, while also reflecting on the past and how we got to where we are.”

Deputy Mayor Izzy Ford says this is an opportunity to say thank you to woman from all walks of life, who have made a difference large or small - in our city and our communities.

“Think about who has had an influence in your life. It could be a midwife, businesswoman, artist, educator, a police officer, coach, health worker, community leader, someone from a church, school or club – anyone who inspires, influences or contributes in some way.”

Councillor ‘Ana Coffey says this celebration is about past, present and future.

“Porirua is a growing city and our wāhine are not just contributing to its development but creating legacies for our young people.

“Just as the suffragettes did 125 years ago, women today continue to push boundaries and challenge the status quo to create a bright future for the generations that follow.”

The successful nominees will be invited to attend the Miromoda Runway Show as VIP guests. Miromoda is a spectacular night of fashion, showcasing New Zealand’s talented Māori fashion designers. VIP guests will enjoy drinks and nibbles before the show, a front row seat on the runway, a goodie bag and more.

Nominations can be made online at www.poriruacity.govt.nz/discover-porirua/events/suffrage125/

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