Celebrating International Women’s Day with NZHC

Gabby with the Black Ferns after winning the Women’s title at the HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2026

As we approach International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026, I’ve been reflecting on the theme “Give to Gain”, a powerful reminder that progress for women and girls benefits everyone, strengthening families, communities, and economies alike.
Giving to gain speaks to partnership rather than charity. It recognises that when we invest time, resources, and genuine allyship in the empowerment of women and girls, the returns uplift entire communities, economies, and societies. This is true not only in New Zealand and Singapore but across our shared Indo-Pacific region and the wider world.

In New Zealand, we know that inclusive leadership leads to better outcomes. Women represent nearly half of our parliamentary seats, a fact we’re proud of, but also a prompt to do more. We continue to support policies that ensure women have equal access to education, fair pay, and leadership opportunities. We recognise that the full participation of women in public life strengthens democratic institutions and fosters resilient communities.

Women Heads of Missions at the International Day of Women in Diplomacy 2025

Here in Singapore and across Southeast Asia, New Zealand’s partnerships with governments, civil society, and business sectors reflect this same belief. Initiatives that support women’s economic empowerment, particularly through skills development and entrepreneurship, are not just the right thing to do, they are grounded in data and sound economics. When women thrive in business and innovation, markets grow and societies flourish.

Giving to gain also means listening. Speaking about values and vision is important, but hearing directly from women and girls about their aspirations and the barriers they face is essential. Their lived experiences shape better policies and programmes. In both Singapore and New Zealand, and increasingly through regional dialogues, elevating diverse voices ensures progress is not just for some, but for all.

On this International Women’s Day, let us celebrate the achievements of women who’ve led change, often against the odds, and acknowledge those whose stories remain unheard. Let us recommit ourselves to the work ahead: closing pay gaps, eliminating gender-based violence, ensuring access to quality healthcare, and supporting women’s leadership in every field.

Providing cheer and New Zealand goodies to underprivileged children

Ultimately, “Give to Gain” is a call to action that invites us all, governments, businesses, communities, and individuals, to invest in equality. When we do, the gains are profound: healthier families, stronger economies, and more just societies. Together, we can build a world where every woman and girl has the opportunity to reach her full potential and to contribute to the benefit of us all.