RWNZ began as the Women's Division of Farmers' Union (WDFU) with Florence Polson as founding president on 28 July 1925

WDFU's aims were to support the Farmers' Union founded in 1899 & the welfare of women & children of rural landowners

WDFU's name changed to Women's Division Federated Farmers (WDFF) in 1946

(The Farmers' Union had joined with the Sheep Owners' Federation to form Federated Farmers of New Zealand Inc in 1944.)

WDFF became known as Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) in 1999 & was independent from Federated Farmers

RWNZ provides support for all rural women & rural communities with funds, grants, activities & public policy submissions

Over the decades, Women's Division branches of the Farmers' Union were formed in the regions

By mid-1927, membership reached 1,250; grew to 10,164 in 1932; peaked over 30,000 in 1960; then reduced with urban drift

Annual conferences were held & remits passed to support the Farmers' Union & the needs of rural women & children

WDFU adopted the Farmers' Union's motto "Principles Not Party" to show non-partisan stance on farmer-friendly policies

The Women's Division & Farmers' Union lobbied MPs on agricultural issues & economic policies

(Image: 13 July 1939: Lobbied over exchange rate, prices for 1939/40 season, transport charges & rural labour shortage)

Book clubs with travelling libraries were introduced, & household guides with recipes were also published as fundraisers

11 editions & c.60,000 copies were sold. (Image: Revised household guide with recipes published in 1950s by WDFF)

Activities to reduce rural women's isolation included social events & newsletters

(Image: Picnic held by Women's Division, c.1940-1950)

Educational Weeks; agricultural & domestic training programmes; & boarding school scholarships were introduced

Support was also given to teens from Britain training as farming cadets at Flock House & Girls' Flock House

WDFF also participated in A&P shows & a team won a world record for a fleece-finished garment at Nelson on 17 Nov 1967

Team of 12 took 6 hrs, 46 mins & 19 secs to shear a sheep, spin the wool & knit jersey (35 mins 16 secs off old record)

Respite/resthomes & holiday homes were run by the Women's Division during 1939 - 1970s

(Image: 'Kainga Moe' Rest Home run by WDFU who acquired the building in 1939 & it later burnt down in 1958)

Fundraising has included a Spitfire (WWII), 'Aftersocks' knitting (Chch 2011 earthquake) & Adverse Relief Fund (2010s)

(Image: Spitfire)

Education & business development support is provided; eg workshops, webinars, & boarding scholarship grants

(Image: Collaborations with other organisations have included regional 'Farm Environment Planning' webinars)

Funding support provided by RWNZ included the documentary "She shears" released in 2018

Featured were NZ women shearers Jills Angus Burney, Hazel Wood, Catherine Mullooly, Pagan Karauria & Emily Welch

During 2000s, initiatives included Enterprising Rural Women & Business Awards; & strategies to increase membership

In 2017, there were 3000 members in 300 branches. (Image: Book cover "Growing more than grass", 2017)

Silver Jubilee (25th year) was held in 1950, by when there were 25,000 members & 650 branches & 40 provincial executives

(Image: Cover of "And so we grew: the story of the Women's Division of Federated Farmers of New Zealand, 1925-1950")

Branch Celebrations: Individual branches have also celebrated their own anniversary, including Te Puke's 30th in 1965

(Image: 7 life members at Te Puke in 1965, by when nationally over 27,000 members, 800 branches & 60 provincial units)

Golden Jubilee (50th year) held in 1975, by when membership had declined to over 21,000

From the 1970s, membership was ageing & began declining due to urban drift for work & rise in special interest groups

From mid-1800s, Māori land ownership declined rapidly through sales & confiscations to soldiers & settler farmers

Many Māori men & women became seasonal labourers as shearers, fencers & plough workers. (Image: Māori woman with plough)

Many women were amongst the settlers living remotely in rural areas

(Image: Book (2024) by Robert Peden relates stories of women working alongside partners & raising families in 19th C.)

On 22 May 1858, the Canterbury Farmers' Club was established to aid livestock breeding, crop varieties & cultivation

(Advert (15 May 1859) for the initial meeting to be held to form the Club)

In 1863, NZ's first Agricultural and Pastoral Association (A&P) was established at Canterbury & held annual shows

Other A&P associations started to form & Canterbury published "The New Zealand Country Journal" from 1877-1898

By 1890s, Farmers Clubs had begun in various districts & the Auckland district proposed having a co-operative society

In 1885, another independent newspaper had started in Auckland, "The New Zealand Farmer", which shared news & adverts

On 31 March 1897, Auckland Farmers' Club established a committee to investigate forming & naming the society

Meetings were then held to consider feedback from other districts with Sam Browne (Hokianga farmer) as Hon Secretary

On 30 Nov 1897, the name 'Auckland Farmers' Co-operative Society' was selected over 'Auckland Farmers' Union'

Sam Browne was appointed secretary & his advocacy led to Hokianga farmer Arthur Glass wanting a NZ Farmers' Union

During 1899, Arthur Glass (farmer in Broadwood, Hokianga) promoted the concept of the NZ Farmers' Union

Article (15 Aug 1901): Glass recounts his journey between 1899-1902 as the organising secretary to form branches in NZ

During Sept 1899, the first branch of the NZ Farmers' Union was formed at Kaitaia

Note: Article states 19 Sept, whereas Federated Farmers' website lists 18 Sept & Encyclopaedia of New Zealand: 1 Sept

Glass helped organise other provincial branches & conferences began to be held by each province for its delegates

Each branch appointed its Provincial President & committee

In July 1902, the first national conference was held & the New Zealand Farmers' Union was formally constituted

From 1902-1920, farmer & former MP James Wilson was appointed Dominion President & was knighted in 1915

In Sept 1903, the "Farmers' Advocate" was published weekly; & was renamed "Farmers' Union Advocate" in Dec 1905

Previously, news & adverts appeared in other organisations' farming newspapers, including "The New Zealand Farmer"

In June 1895, when in London, Kate Sheppard was requested by ICW to form a national council in NZ

(Kate & her family visited England during 1894-early 1896 & she gave lectures & attended WWCTU's & ICW's conferences)

When back in NZ, Kate learnt Canterbury Woman's Institute & Dunedin's Women's Franchise League wanted a national group

(CWI arose from idea to form a Ladies' Institute in Dunedin in 1892 & Kate was a committee member; & WFL began in 1892)

On 13 April 1896, the National Council of Women of New Zealand (NCWNZ) was formed with Kate Sheppard as President

NCWNZ's aim was to unify existing women's societies & form new ones in trades, professions, & social & political work

Under the 1912 & 1913 Land Acts, farmers on leasehold land had the option of purchasing it freehold

NZFU had lobbied the Government, & the newly elected Reform Party under farmer William Massey passed the legislation

Map of Census data for 1916 shows number of women per 100 men in rural & urban areas

Bright blue: under 70, Mid-blue: 70-80, Pale blue: 80-90, Whitish: 90-100, Pink: 100-110, Bright red: over 100

Many farmers' wives & children helped out on the farm to reduce labour costs

(Image: Haymaking machine drawn by two horses & driven by a young woman or girl on a farm near Walton in Waikato, 1919)

Rural women tended to remain within the home & not participate in activities outside of the domestic sphere

(Image: Woman feeding her rooster, hens & Muscovy ducks on a farm at Matatoke, Thames, 1920)

Rural women worked long hours with few household amenities that were increasingly available in towns & cities

Gas & electric heaters, stoves & lighting; transport, communications & community service were less accessible

Milking was done by hand until about 1920 when half the national herd was milked by machine

(Image: Woman milking a cow by hand on a farm at Maungaturoto, with dogs & cat waiting for a milk treat, 1922)

During WWI, the Women's Institute concept spread to Britain & its Govt supported agricultural & horticultural training

To increase wartime food production, rural women helped produce goods & services marketed through co-operatives

Meanwhile, NZ's National Council of Women decided to reconvene in April 1918 to bring women's social issues to the fore

Delegates from Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Gisborne & Wellington met in Wellington, & regional branches were formed

In 1919, Anna Spencer visited a Women's Institute (WI) handcraft exhibition in London & wanted to start WI in Napier

Anna (b.1872) was Napier Girls' High Principal (1901-9); then became an orchardist & volunteered for war work in London

During late 1919, the concept of forming Women's Institutes in NZ towns & farming areas was promoted to newspapers

(Evening Post (16 Dec 1919) shares written proposal received (author unnamed) for Women's Institutes forming in NZ)

On 27 Jan 1921, the Women's Institute (WI) was formed at Rissington near Napier by Anna Spencer & Amy Hutchinson

Anna & Amy became friends when students at high school & Amy was Matron when Anna was the Principal of Napier Girls'

WI intended to unite & support country women in towns & rural communities, whether or not landowners

(Image: Rissington WI set out its aims & activities - social, educational, craft & cultural; & homemaking skills)

In July 1921, Farmers' Union conference was held & William Polson was appointed Dominion President, serving until 1936

William (b.1875 in Wanganui) was the Provincial President for Wellington in 1920–21

William had a farm at Fordell near Wanganui where he lived with his Australian-born wife Florence & 4 children

Florence was born in 1877 in Victoria & married William in Melbourne in 1910; then lived in NZ

Florence's articles also promoted the women's section of the Victorian Farmers' Union which had formed in 1918

(Article: Evening Post (23 April 1913) includes a reference to a conference being held by women's section in Victoria)

During 1923, William visited NZFU branches accompanied by Florence who met farmers' wives

(Article: William addressed Hawera meeting during membership drive, 1923)

Afterwards, Florence wrote of women living in back-blocks & described the hardships & loneliness faces

(Images (1923) Scenes from rural NZ, including ploughing, driving cattle, working dogs & riding horses)

A post-WWI boom had been followed by a sharp recession in 1921-22, & several farms were divided into smaller lots

Over half of NZ's farms had ownership changes, but many under-capitalised families struggled during the market downturn

With increasing use of farm machinery, less labour was needed & younger women began seeking work in nearby towns

The outcome was a change in rural/urban population balance & interactions within rural families & rural communities

In 1924, "The Farmers' Weekly" replaced "Farmers' Union Advocate" & Florence wrote 'Wives in Council' column

(Article (13 May 1924): During NZFU meeting at Eltham, having women involved & "The Farmers' Weekly" were mentioned)

NZFU organiser Mr L. McAlpine invited delegates' wives to afternoon tea on 27 July at D.I.C. store & he gave a speech

Florence had asked McAlpine to talk about rural women's issues & state the Union was supportive of a Women's Division

McAlpine spoke about the lack of rural medical care & schools, & he described the loneliness faced by rural women

He suggested that more fortunate countrywomen send the occasional letter, book or magazine to rural women to receive

The delegates & their wives attended Conference's formal opening by Governor-General Fergusson during morning of 28 July

After the formal opening at the Dominion Farmer's Institute, the delegates then attended sessions without their wives

From Sept 1925-June 1926, Florence accompanied William & Royal Commission team to Canada, USA, Sth America, UK & Europe

Govt's team was researching Rural Credits & Florence helped with translating languages & also met rural women's groups

Whilst Florence was abroad, Vice-President Mrs Mabel Jackson visited NZFU branches to have them promote the new Division

(Article (2 Oct 1925): Mrs Jackson had addressed Wairarapa Provincial Executive who agreed to promote to their branches)

Early in 1926, WDFU began helping Flock House (near Bulls) which taught British seamen's teen boys farm cadet skills

It was opened in July 1924 with NZFU's Sheep Owners' Fund set up post-WWI for widows of British seamen & disabled seamen

Florence's Presidential address included activities by women's organisations she'd met overseas & WDFU's Annual Report

A constitution was formed & Dominion Council appointed. (Evening Post summarised Florence's address & WDFU's aims)

Florence described 'Community Chest' fundraising in USA & by the Women's Institute in Canada, & WDFU adopted the idea

The funds were for new schemes including book clubs (freight costs), & Bush Nurse & Housekeeper (subsidise wages)

NZ's Women's Institute President Anna Spencer, who attended, suggested WI & WDFU amalgamate but this wasn't agreed to

She'd proposed that the two should amalgamate to form the Country Women's Association

Remits included forming branches with minimum of 5 members, & first branch was formed at Ōakura, Taranaki in June 1926

WDFU membership fee was set at 2/6. (Image: Banner of Ōakura which formally opened in June 1926)

WDFU contacted branches of Farmers' Union to hold a meeting of wives for WDFU to discuss forming a Women's Division

(Article: South Canterbury Farmers' Union agreed to hold a meeting at Timaru, Oct 1926)

During its publicity tour, WDFU also set up an information stand at the Royal A&P Show held in Auckland in Nov 1926

To publicise WDFU, Mrs Polson & Mrs Jackson distributed copies of the "Seven Reasons Why You Are asked to Join"

In July 1926, WDFU began a book club at Marton which loaned books & magazines to rural families

Florence Polson had seen a similar club operating by the Victoria League in Australia

Districts were divided into groups with a coordinator 'Big Sister' sending books to furtherest home to pass backwards

(Article (10 March 1927): Books could be kept for one week & recipients invited to join WDFU for 2s 6d annually)

On 5 July 1927, a 'Book Day' was held throughout NZ for donations of books & magazines, including children's books

Parcels (10 books, 6 magazines, & illust. papers) were sent to nearest train station & freight paid by Community Chest

Following adverts placed in April 1927, WDFU appointed Nurse Catherine Blackie as Bush Nurse & Miss Moore as Housekeeper

The Community Chest subsidised the wage each user could afford. (Evening Post (8 June 1927): Nurse Blackie's background)

At WDFU's July 1927 conference, identified needs included marketing of produce & more town & rural children interactions

WDFU's annual report included that a Bush Nurse & a Housekeeper & the Book Club had begun

The number of members & branches had begun to increase & by mid-1927 there were 1250 members & 14 branches

Activities on leadership, organisational & personal skills & crafts began to be held. (Image: Beaumont Branch, 1920s)

The Branches began encouraging rural families' teenagers & younger children to become involved in activities

The aims were to encourage social interaction within rural communities & to ensure succession for WDFU

On 5 Oct 1927, WDFU announced 9 Housekeepers had been appointed to Wairarapa, Hunterville, Tauhape & Okoia districts

At Wairapapa, Miss Moore had been joined by Miss Wishaw & 3 more were expected over the next 10 or so days

At its July 1928 conference, WDFU reported its membership was over 3000, & advocated increased medical & dental support

WDFU's activities had included establishing restrooms & meeting halls, & providing rest tents at shows

Remits included having a paid secretary & central headquarters. (Later, Wanganui was chosen as Mrs Polson lived nearby)

Annual report also included activities of the Bush nurses, Housekeepers, & Book Club. (See Evening Post, 26 July 1928)

Meanwhile, Women’s Institutes began to increase & provincial Federations formed in Auckland (1927) & Wellington (1928)

President Anna Spencer toured & wrote to women’s sections of "The New Zealand Dairy Exporter" & "The New Zealand Farmer"

WI encouraged Māori women to either join or form own Māori Women’s Institutes; & Te Awapuni began in Hawkes Bay in 1929

Others followed including Rangataua Women's Institute (see image), & by 1937 there were 40

NZ's National Council of Women (NCWNZ) arranged for Lady Gunson to attend the conference & ICW's meetings held at London

Lady Jessie Gunson was the wife of former Auckland Mayor & businessman Sir James Gunson who was knighted in 1924

Afterwards, ICW decided to form a global 'Liaison Committee' which became 'Associated Country Women of the World' (ACWW)

It was renamed ACWW during ICW's Stockholm conference in 1933 (see image), & upholds United Nations conventions on women

During May 1929, WDFU held Mothers' Welfare Week to raise funds for Obstetrics Society's new scholarship, & granted £50

The Society had asked WDFU for support for its Scholarship fund. (Evening Post reported on Wakapuaka WDFU's activities)

In May 1929, a comment on maternal mortality by WDFU Secretary Una Macleod at the Wanganui headquarters made the news

She'd said if legislation required farmers to keep wives as 'decently' as cattle, mortality rate wouldn't be so heavy

In 1929, Univ of Otago developed Home Science Extension Service (HSES) for rural women & promoted it with WDFU's support

The Home Science's American Professor Ann Gilchrist Strong developed the course which was funded by Carnegie Corp of NZ

Prof Ann Strong developed courses on food, clothing, household planning & furnishing, which included filmstrips

Lectures & demonstrations, radio talks, a box lecture series, correspondence courses & pamphlets were provided

On 23 July 1929, WDFU's annual conference reported on the location of headquarters at Wanganui & staffing issues

(The office was in the H.B. Buildings, Victoria St.) There had been several paid secretaries & helpers since Aug 1928.

Conference resolution was to shift its headquarters to a more central location for Sth Islanders, eg Wellington

(After the Conference, a team visited Wellington to look at renting office space, & D.I.C. was chosen.)

WDFU's remits included improving ante-natal care & establishing a Chair of Obstetrics at Otago Univ

Plus, improved access to dental services, boarding school scholarships, & voting rights for hospitals & harbour boards

In Oct 1929, WDFU's headquarters moved to an office at D.I.C. in Wellington & Book Club was later relocated to a depot

(Article: Evening Post (18 June 1930) reported on headquarters' relocation, the Book Club, Bush Nurses & Housekeepers)

In 1929, WDFU circulated pamphlet "The Women Organise" which emphasised partnership with her husband (see article)

During 1929, WDFU also began sharing news in NZ Dairy Board's magazine, as well as using other farm journals

WDFU also promoted sewing circles & dressmaking teams were formed

(Article: Evening Post (2 Nov 1929): Wellington branch's junior members contributed new & old clothing to needy causes)

By Jan 1930, WDFU's membership had reached 5000 & 87 branches

(Evening Post (28 Jan 1930) recounted the founding of WDFU following Mr McAlpine's talk on 27 July 1925 & progress made)

In Jan 1930, WDFU was visited by Mrs Darling of Hobart who shared Tasmania's Bush nursing scheme's operations

Mrs Darling was wanting to gather information on women's movements In NZ that could be adapted to Tasmania

In 1930, during the winter months WDFU sent out appeals to the branches for donations of clothing for the needy

(Evening Post (3 Sept) reported on Wellington branch's clothing donations & its sewing circle making children's clothes)

On 2 Oct 1930, WDFU's parallel organisation the Women's Institute (WI) held its 1st Dominion conference in Wellington

WI's resolution to form a Dominion Federation occurred in 1932: The Dominion Federation of Women's Institutes (Inc.)

WI focused on rural women's education, including art & craft workshops & exhibits; agriculture, & community welfare

(Image: President Anna Spencer's demo of spinning during 1931.) (Was also known by middle names: Elizabeth & Jerome)

In Dec 1930, WDFU published "New Zealand Women's Household Guide" with recipes & general hints

By 1950, 11 editions & 60,000 copies were sold. (Image: Recipe titles archived from NZ organisations, Including WDFU)

In March 1931, the NZ Pan-Pacific Women's Association was formed & held its 1st meeting in 1932 with WDFU as a member

The PPWA grew out of two conferences of women of Pacific countries held at Honolulu in 1928 & 1930

In July 1931, WDFU held its annual conference in Wellington & its membership had reached 7,328

WDFU had 81 branches & four provincial councils

WDFU's conference reported on its schemes & the support given following the Napier earthquake on 3 Feb 1931

Relief work included money & clothing, assistance to fruit farmers & producers, & an offer to the Govt to adopt orphans

By 1932, membership had reached 10,164 & WDFU began publishing "The N.Z. Countrywoman" magazine which was quarterly

(Article: Evening Post (7 Dec 1936) includes a description of contents of WDFU's magazine)

In Nov 1932, WDFU's Finance Committee met followed by its Bush Nurse and Housekeeper Auxiliary

A speaker, Miss Violet Macmillan (Home Science Extension Dept of Victoria Univ), proposed cooperation with WDFU branches

In Feb 1933, WDFU Executive's report included that 7 junior branches had been formed to ensure succession

Although social activities were to be the main focus, they'd also be trained to think nationally & internationally

In July 1933, WDFU's annual conference was held & president Mrs Jackson summarised the developments that had taken place

Schemes included establishment of convalescent & rest homes in towns, sewing classes, & gifts of clothes & blankets

As WDFU members had reached over 13,000, the branches had begun to be formed into Provincial Executives

By Nov 1833, 22 Provincial Executives had formed & oversaw Bush nurses, Housekeepers, sewing women, & book groups, etc

On 15 Sept 1933, 1st issue of the monthly "Point Blank" set up by NZFU President William Polson was published

Polson's overview of content led to concerns as he was also an MP; hence the journal could have political overtones

On 17-18 July 1935, WDFU's annual conference was held in Wellington & new executive elected with Mrs Drake as President

Mrs Anna Ward (centre image) retired as President & was later awarded an OBE in May 1937

Mrs Pow (on left) was re-elected Treasurer & Mrs Bing (on right) was elected Honorary Secretary

The Conference's reports included that a dressmaking scheme in Southland with 130 girls being trained was a success

They were taught by a paid tutor. The suggestion was made to extend the training scheme to other districts.

Delegates discussed a cartoon of the King in NZFU's "Point Blank", which had caused controversy

WDFU's treasurer Mrs Pow resigned to disassociate WDFU from "Point Blank"; then stayed on when requested by members

WDFU activities included annual provincial Girls' Educational Weeks which also encouraged rural & urban interactions

(Image: Country Girls' Educational Week at Oamaru in Aug 1935)

In 1936, WDFU began supporting the Domestic Training Scheme proposed by the National Council of Women

In July 1936, Southland Girls' Educational Week was held at Invercargill

c.1930s: Picnic with members & children of the Women's Division & the Farmer's Union

In July 1936, WDFU's conference was held & the question whether to amalgamate with WI was raised again & deferred

(In 1932, WI's official name became The Dominion Federation of Women's Institutes: DFWI)

In Dec 1936, Associated Countrywomen of the World President Mrs Jones proposed WDFU & WI form a coordinating committee

Mrs Jones, who resided in Canada, was touring NZ to meet with women's organisations when her opinion was asked

In March 1937, WDFU reported a co-ordination committee was formed with Women's Institute (WI), rather than amalgamate

WDFU & CI to liaise on similar issues. Also, the housekeepers, which numbered 64, to also be promoted to non-members.

An advert in June 1937 indicated WDFU's office had been moved to Brandon Street in Wellington

Evening Post (26 June 1923): Advert sought accommodation for delegates during its conference to be held in July 1937

In July 1937, the Women's Division's annual Dominion Conference was held in Wellington

(Image: Delegates included Mrs. J. F. Drake (Otago Provincial President) & Mrs. A. B. Smith (Dominion Secretary))

Officers elected included new Dominion President Mrs Drake (2d right) who succeeded Mrs Ward (4th right)

Vice-Presidents (L-R): Mrs Ward (Lumsden), Nutt (Canterbury), Forsyth (Nelson), Wickham (Wanganui) & Adams (Auckland)

Under the Domestic Service Regulations 1937, WDFU became a recognised society

Hence, its Bush Nurse & Housekeeper schemes were covered by Dept of Health. (Image: Members of Women's Division, 1937)

In July 1937, Girls' Educational Week was held in Invercargill & suggestion was made to have a similar week for women

(Image: Girls' Educational Week lectures & demonstrations in Invercargill, July 1937)

In Aug 1937, the first Country Women's Week was held in Invercargill, following the success of Girls' Educational Week

Other Country Women's Weeks were also held iby other provinces. (Image: Dunedin, Nov 1937)

During 1937, WDFU members supported the NZ Post Office's 'Buy Health Stamps for Health Camps' campaign

The one penny stamp sold for two pence, and the proceeds above postage were donated to children's health

In Nov 1937, WDFU acquired rental premises at No. 114 Wellington Terrace to relocate its office & include club rooms

(Beforehand, the head office had moved from D.I.C. to Dominion Farmers' Institute, & then to Brandon St.)

During March 1938, WDFU officially opened club rooms at its rented premises & began the "Progress report" newspaper

WDFU printed "Progress report" in newspaper format instead of "NZ Countrywomen" magazine, & posted to members for 1d

On 11 March 1938, the Council of Adult Education (CAE) was appointed by Labour Govt with Nina Barrer as a board member

Until 1947, Barrer represented the WDFF & WI coordinating committee of which she was a member for WDFF

Farrer's suggestions led CAE to make annual grants for tutors to run courses in rural areas

Activities included dressmaking, gardening, food preservation, & singing. (See Nov 1942 article on classes.)

In June 1938, WDFU & WI jointly organised the Girls' Educational Week held at Auckland

Organisers were WDFU's Waitemata Provincial Executive & the Auckland Federation of Women's Institutes

On 12 July 1938, WDFU's annual conference reported membership had increased to 20246, & 525 senior & 17 junior branches

The report on Housekeepers included: "The Maori branches are endeavouring to supply housekeepers for their own members".

During 1930s, the need for WDFU's Book Clubs began to lessen as public libraries & Country Library Service began to form

(In 1930, Christchurch started a travelling library, & Country Library Service's vans also began in 1938.)

In Feb 1939, WDFU opened Kainga Moe Rest Home, Awapuni to alleviate the demand on the Bush Nurses

Building was former Girls' Flock House which closed in 1931 & was sold to Concordia College Assoc

30 May-10 June 1939: WDFU & WI attended Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW) triennial conference in London

Beforehand, NZ's delegation met with women's organisations in Holland & visited agricultural sites in Switzerland

From 8 Nov 1939 - 4 May 1940, the New Zealand Centennial Exhibition was held at Rongotai in Wellington

The country-women's section, organised by WDFU & NZ Women's Institutes, showed women's work & recreation

In 1939, the book "Brave days: pioneer women of New Zealand" compiled by WDFF was published by Reed

Tells the stories of pioneer women in the provinces & includes a chapter on history of WDFF

In March 1940, Kainga Moe Board reported on its training of Māori women in homecare & fieldwork experience with officers

As the trainng was a success, it wanted to extend the programme to cover every branch of home service & management

In April 1940, the National Council of Adult Education formed a Women's Co-ordinating Committee which included WDFU

The Committee's focus was on the needs of country women & began planning activities in Auckland Province (see article)

In 1940, Southland WDFF was offered a section for a rest home at Riverton by Mrs Anderson but site deemed unsuitable

A sub-committee was formed in June 1945 & began searching for land; but Wellington decided to pay off existing resthomes

In 1941, WDFU gifted £5OOO raised in one month for a Spitfire & it was flown by the 485(NZ) Squadron

The aircraft was W3528 (RAF serial number) & coded OU-C with "W.D.F.U.N.Z. LEVIN" painted on the cowling

In 1941, Lord Bledisloe asked countrywomen to provide woollen garments for UK's Merchant Navy & WDFU & WI agreed to help

Evening Post (17 July 1941) reported arrangements for the supply of wool had been made in the Auckland Province

In July 1941, WDFU's annual conference reported on the war work including wool for the Mercantile Marine

(Both WDFU & WI had begun hand-spinning wool for garments for the NZ Navy to ship to the UK)

In Dec 1941, the WDFU & WI began holding the Countrywomen's Munition Metal Drive

By March 1943, over 584 tons of metal had been collected & money from its sale went to the Canterbury Patriotic Fund

By 1942, WDFU's "Progress report" had 4800 subscribers & it resumed the name "NZ Countrywomen" & shared branches' news

(Article (June 1842): Branches' activities included educational programmes & fundraising for the war effort)

In Aug 1942, a crusade for victory was organised by WDFU & WI to have NZ food requirements grown within NZ

Growing more potatoes & other vegetables & increasing egg production were encouraged due to shortage of shipping space

In Oct 1943, the Evening Post announced WDFU had acquired 2 rest homes - Melrose in Nelson & Te Kiteroa near Waimate

Melrose was gifted by Eileen Adams (WDFF President, 1939-1941) & her husband Colonel Noel Adams

The house was built in 1879 for Charles Watt & inherited by his daughter's son Noel Adams

Te Kiteroa & its 6 acres was purchased by WDFU from the Trustees estate of Mr Napier who'd run it as a guesthouse

It was built in i1913 for Mrs Emily Phillips who was left a bequest by her employer Mr Allan McLean at Waikakahi Estate

During 1944, WDFU registered under Government's Domestic Service Assistance Regulations for regular wage allowance

The Govt responded proposing to fund housekeeping service to also include non-rural women, which WDFU deliberated over

On 16 Aug 1944, CORSO was formed in NZ with WDFU as a member to assist war-torn countries

CORSO (Organisations for Relief Service Overseas) assisted UN's Relief and Rehabilitation Administration aid effort

In Nov 1944, WDFU reported a shortage of domestic help & wanted Kainga Moe's training of young women extended

WDFU proposed the Govt allow women willing to help to retain their social security, age & widow's benefit

At its July 1945 Conference held after 3 year gap, WDFU was thanked by NZ Red Cross for its assistance during WWII

Remits included itinerant teachers for young correspondent pupils of busy mothers, & a rest home for Auckland Province

During the conference, WDFU discussed Govt's proposal that the housekeeping service include non-rural women

The delegates agreed to accept the Govt's proposal to fund the housekeeping service for rural & non-rural women

WDFU decided to use Kainga Moe as its training centre for its Domestic Training Scheme

(Image: 'Shalimar' was building's original name & became known as WDFF's 'Kainga Moe Rest Home' in 1940s)

Speaker Mr. Avery of Agricultural Dept passed on proposal by Young Farmers' Club (YFC) for a Young Women's Club

The Young Farmers' Club had started in 1927 in Fielding & decided on a 'sister' club rather than admit women as members

On 20 July 1945, Women's Division followed behind NZ Farmer's Union members to meet with the Minister of Finance Mr Nash

NZFU wished to discuss increasing the prices on the Govt's new farm price schedule

On 29 Sept 1944, the Council of the Farmers' Federation agreed to adopt the proposal & to register the new organisation

On 30 Nov 1944, the new organisation was registered as "Federation Farmers' of New Zealand Inc"

(Article: The initial choice of "The United Farmers' Federation of New Zealand" was no longer available)

Branches were to begin setting up provisional executives in provinces until formal elections held at conferences

Booklet: "An introduction to the Women's Division Federated Farmers of N.Z. (Inc.)" (7 pages) published c.1950

Meeting Procedure Guidebook was produced by WDFF

The booklet set out "Procedure to follow when chairing a meeting' for all branches...."

Booklet: The Women's Division of Federated Farmers (WDFF) Song, The Women's Creed and WDFF Prayer. (No date)

During 1946, WDFF purchased premises in Thorndon at 105 Grant Road with donations from Branches as a 21st birthday gift

It shifted its headquarters from The Terrace to Grant Road which cost £4000 to purchase

WDFF set up a general office; offices for cashier & secretary; kitchen; meeting room; & accommodation for visitors

(Image: Earlier photo of the premises, c.1930)

Financial records, including donations to WDFF Head Office, were kept by the WDFF branches

Membership was 2s 6d of which 2 shillings was sent to Headquarters & sixpence retained by the branch

WDFF also drafted a Constitution for Country Girls' Clubs (CGC) & contacted WI & Young Farmers' Club for feedback

Aims included educational & cultural pursuits; knowledge of agriculture & homecraft; & develop youth leadership

CGC branches began to form for 14–30 age group in districts & WDFF encouraged member involvement on branch committees

In 1947, Dr Agnes Bennett donated her home 'Honda' in Lowry Bay, Wellington to WDFF which became its 3rd rest home

Dr Bennett had built the house in 1932. (Image: WDFF book includes photos of Honda & its first two & fourth rest home)

By 1948, nine Country Girls' Clubs were operating & a national federation was formed & held its 1st conference in 1949

A Dominion President (Mrs Schoder) & Executive were appointed with WDFF, WI, YFC, & Dpt of Agriculture represented

Dept of Agriculture's Rural Development Division provided an organising secretary, treasurer & home science instructors

It also published "The Country Girls' Newsletter" & activities included rural education (Image: 1955)

CGC clubs competed in local & national competitions in needlework, dressmaking, art, written work, debates & radio work

In 1949, Southland WDFF bought land at Riverton for a holiday home instead of a rest home with funds it had been raising

(Image: Tea set presented to Mrs Cloughley on sub-committee since June 1945 searching for land & raising funds)

As an interim, in Nov 1950, Southland WDFF drew plans to build two cottages on donated sections to use as holiday homes

The sections at Riverton were donated by family of former president Mrs A. McKenzie. (Image: Citation to Mrs McKenzie)

1949: WDFF's Levels branch in Timaru district introduced a trophy with winners' names engraved on the cup & base

The engraved names cover from 1949 - 2010

In 1951, a proposal by WDFU Mayfield branch for a recipe book led to the compilation of "Te-Kiteroa: Recipe Book"

The recipes were contributed by the WDFF management committee of Te Kiteroa & ex-committee members

WDFF continued to liaise with WI (renamed The Dominion Federation of Country Women's Institutes (Inc.) (DFCWI) in 1952)

WI's upper limit of forming in towns increased from 4000 to 6000 population. (Image: Tauranga Executive of DFCWI, 1953)

In 1952, the Country Girls' Club became the only youth member of the Associated Country Women of the World

GCG members became involved in international rural exchange programmes, similar to the Young Farmers' Club (see article)

In Feb 1955, WDFF opened a hall at King Street, Lower Hutt which was also available for hire

(By end of 1983 farming involvement in the building had lessened, & WDFF sold it in 1984 to King Lion Hall Society Inc)

In 1950s, Edendale WDFF began its choir & sang on radio, choral competitions, homes for elderly, & WDFF & other events

During 1950s-70s, choir numbered 20-28

In April 1958, Kainga Moe Rest Home, which had become WDNZ's training centre, caught fire & was burnt down

In July 1960, WDFF held its annual conference at Wellington

WDFF advocated for improved maternity care, family planning, access & rural safety

In July 1961, WDFF's conference was held in Rotorua

Visiting delegates reported on a visit with Silverstream Hospital Women's Auxiliary, Upper Hutt who supported patients

WDFF's conference included a report on Honda Rest Home & the gift of 'Little Honda' at Hawkestone St, Wellington

The late Dr Agnes Bennett had gifted the smaller property to WDFU & her portrait was hung in her memory

In Oct 1961, WDFF received 'Harris Cottage' in Stanmore Bay, Whangaparoa Peninsula as a bequest from the late Mrs Harris

It was mainly used for family holidays, especially during the school holidays

In 1962, Te Matai branch of WDFF visited Bay of Plenty Times

In Sept 1964, WDFF's provincial gathering held at Greerton Hall, Tauranga included handcraft exhibits

1965: WDFF float at the jubilee parade for the centennial of Okato in Taranaki

The float was set up like a shack & had a banner "Yard Tea Rooms 1928"

1965: Spiral-bound "Cookery Book" (227 p.) compiled by WDFF

In 1966, Ōmokoroa branch of WDFF put on a play called 'Under Paris Skies'

In 1966, Joan Hancock (Tapawera) won the national WDFF wool award for a hand-knitted two piece suit

In 1966, sale of Honda in Lowry four years earlier enabled WDFF to buy its headquarters at 25 Hawkestone St

Headquarters moved from 105 Grant Rd to 25 Hawkesworth St near its Honda Clubrooms which had accommodation (see advert)

By 1967, WDFF Head Office operated 6 premises: Headquarters & 5 holiday/rest homes

Sites: Wellington (Headquarters & Honda), Auckland (Scotlands & Harris Cottage), Waimate (Te Kiteroa) & Nelson (Melrose)

By Jan 1968, membership was over 25,000 & "An Introduction to the Women's Division Federated Farmers of NZ" published

It includes WDFF's aims & objectives, & international & local affiliations & membership

In 1968, Gisborne district section of the Wool Craft Competitions - sewing & knitting - was held for WDFF & CWI members

Event was sponsored by the New Zealand Wool Board

Dec 1968: WDFF's Ouruhuia Branch having a Christmas Party Lunch at Christchurch

In 1969, the Gisborne section of the Wool Crafts Competitions - sewing and hand knitting – held for WDFF & CWI members

During 1971 & 1972, the Canterbury WDFF fundraised for wheelchairs to donate

(On 2 Dec 1971, The Press reported a wheelchair & £100 cheque were presented for use at the Wellington Hospital)

In 1970s, WDFF worked with Massey University on Lepto Project to research leptospirosis in farm stock affecting workers

Wet weather can lead to leptospirosis in animals which can transfer to humans. (Image: Lambs being vaccinated, 1975)

During 1970s, there was an increasing decline in rural population due to urban drift & WDFF membership began to decline

Rural women also increasingly joined special interest groups. (Image: Evans Flat WDFF held its Silver Jubilee in 1975)

In 1972, Country Girls' Clubs (CGC) & Young Farmers' Club (YFC) held a joint conference & agreed to amalgamate

Initial name chosen was 'Federation of Youth' & they jointly published the "Young country" magazine

During June 1973 conference, the amalgamated CGC & YFC adopted a new constitution & name

New name became 'New Zealand Federation of Young Farmers Clubs'. YFC members outnumbered CGC by three to one.

In 1975, when NZFF held its Golden Jubilee, it's membership had declined to over 21,000

(Image: Invitation for the Golden Jubilee Conference of the Women's Division Federated Farmers, 1975)

The Golden Jubilee dinner was held at the Wellington Show Building on Thursday, 26 June 1975

(Image: Menu for the Golden Jubilee dinner)

WDFF published its 50th Anniversary booklet "Service simply given: 1925-1975"

In 1975, the Govt formed the 'Committee on Women' which was the fore-runner of 'Manatū Wāhine Ministry for Women'

It was formed after UN declared 1975 to be 'International Women's Year' & advised on women's rights & equality

In 1981, WDFF joined with other women's groups, networks & individuals to form 'Women in Agriculture' (WAg) coalition

WAg held skill-sharing seminars at Lincoln College with practical workshops & discussion groups, & held events elsewhere

In 1982, WI's name changed to The New Zealand Federation of Country Women's Institutes (Inc)

In Aug 1982, WDFF's Parawera Women's Division held its conference

(Image: President Mary Bennet cutting the cake)

In 1985, a report on WDFF was commissioned from the New Zealand Futures Trust

The findings led WDFF to obtain corporate sponsorship for leadership courses & community development work

In 1985, WDFF's anniversary celebrations included a gilt coloured teaspoon in a plastic presentation case

In 1986, WDFF marched on Parliament following the downturn in farming following Labour Govt's 'Rogernomics' in 1984

Economic changes included floating NZ dollar, GST, & removing import licenses & tariffs

In 1988, WDFF sold No. 25 Hawkestone St & purchased 30 Hawkestone St for its headquarters office

Its headquarters was now sited along from its Honda Clubrooms known as Honda House which is run as a B&B nowadays

Floral competitions were held, including at Havelock North in 1988

On 26-30 June 1989, the 62nd Dominion Conference of WDFF was held in New Plymouth

(Image: Programme for the opening night of the Conference)

(Image: WDFF Havelock North Branch meeting celebrating 40th birthday party, 5 Sept 1990)

In 1991, an infopak was produced to aid the Executive with the running of WDFF

In 1992, membership had declined to 7022 in 410 branches due to increasing urban drift & other interest groups forming

Branches continued promoting women in agriculture. (Image: Evans Flat WDFF held a stall at Country Fair, c.1992/1993)

Floral competitions continued to be held

In 1993, Asia Pacific Women's Watch (APWW) formed to collaborate with govts, non-govt organizations (NGOs) & UN's ECOSOC

The United Nations had formed the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in 1945

1993: Booklet celebrating 60 years of the Hawke's Bay Provincial WDFF

On 15 Oct 1995, International Rural Women's Day began by WWSF (Women's World Summit Foundation) & adopted by UN in 2008

(Image: RWNZ Muhunoa East Branch donated an evergreen magnolia tree to the Levin Adventure Park on 15 Oct 2002)

1997: Booklet celebrating 50 years of the Havelock North WDFF

Sept 1998: Child car seats were presented to Upper Hutt Plunket by the Upper Hutt WDFF

In previous years, donations included a wheelchair to Upper Hutt Red Cross, & knitted singlets each year for Plunket

A ceremonial WDFF chair with "Presented By TARANAKI PROVINCIALS March 1967" written on a plaque attached to the top

By 1990s, NZ's rural population had declined to 16% of total population compared with 30% in 1920

Increasingly rural dwellers had urban jobs for all or part of their income. (Since 1926 Census, 'urban' = 1000+ people)

Perceptions of WDFF included that it was a 'division' of Federated Farmers & was for older or retired farming ladies

Hence, not all younger women considered joining & chose other special interest groups emerging in urban areas

WDFF activities were seen as encompassing monthly meetings with a speaker, baking, & flower competitions

Knowledge of WDFF policy manifesto & activities at national & international levels weren't as well-known to non-members

During 2000s, Home Care was rebranded as Access Homehealth Ltd

(Article: RNZ (1 March 2011) on home help providers including Access Homehealth)

In 2001, the Asia Pacific Women's Watch sub-branch 'Pacific Women's Watch (NZ)' formed with RWNZ as a member

PWW(NZ) reports on UN's Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. (See 2011 Report)

In 2003, the 'New Zealand Federation of Young Farmers Clubs' was renamed 'New Zealand Young Farmers'

Members became increasingly involved in the annual 'Young Farmers of the Year' competition & their boards merged in 2006

In 2004, WI's name changed to The New Zealand Federation of Women's Institutes (Incorporated)

It had dropped 'Country' from its title to promote a wider, more urban identity to reverse declining & aging membership

In 2006, a survey by RWNZ of over 100 rural women found post-natal depression & a feeling of isolation were common

On 12 Feb 2008, Rural Women New Zealand Inc registered as a charity under the Charities Act 2005

(On the Charities Services website, RWNZ Inc is listed as CC21092; & its address has been updated to current location)

In 2009, RWNZ introduced the Enterprising Rural Women Award (ERWA)

The competition's aim was to highlight the innovative ways women are contributing to the rural economy

2009: Research paper "Rural Women New Zealand: strengthening communities" was conducted by Fiona Gower

The research was conducted under the New Zealand Kellogg Rural Leaders Programme

In May 2010, RWNZ's annual conference included a panel discussion on ways to make rural communities resilient

Speakers were from Canada, Australia & NZ on challenges faced during economic downturn & extreme weather-related events

24 Aug 2010: Interview with May Coutts who joined WDFF at 16 years of age & was awarded Life Membership of RWNZ in 2003

Her roles included Committee member (1941-43), President (1944), Vice-President (1955-60) & Secretary (1960-63)

During 2010-2014, RWNZ's publications included revisions of its recipe books

(Image: Book cover "A good spread" published 2010)

From June 2011 - Dec 2013, the "Bulletin Aotearoa" [electronic resource] was published monthly by RWNZ

(Image links to the archived June 2011 issue which has 47 pages)

From July 2011, "Rural Women Outlook" published semi-annually online by RWNZ. (Print copy ceased in July 2013)

(Image links to the archived July 2011 issue which has 20 pages)

In Feb 2013, Rural women 'Feeling rotten' survey found community support important, especially after recent drought

Top three causes of anxiety were feeling over-whelmed or extended; money & financial stress; & family issues

In 2013, a study of 250 rural women was conducted by Tracta agribusiness marketing agency in Napier

(RNZ (18 April 2013) reported only 35% felt understood or respected by rural marketers when making purchases)

In 2013, RWNZ conducted a rural crime survey of 450 rural women which found drink driving & speeding to be issues

(RNZ (4 June 2013) reported issues also included violent crime which 11% had experienced; & theft of fuel & stock)

In Aug 2014, RWNZ sent its election manifesto with aims in 13 areas over the next 3 years for rural communities

(RNZ interview (19 Aug 2014): RWNZ President Wendy McGowan on equal access; eg broadband, education, & health services)

In Sept 2014, RWNZ applauded Govt's proposal to pay home support workers for time spent travelling between appointments

(RNZ (15 Sept 2014) interviewed RWNZ National President Wendy McGowan about benefits for Access Homehealth service)

On 17 Nov 2014, RWNZ signed an agreement to sell its Access Homehealth to Green Cross Health for $18m

In 2023, Anchorage Capital Partners acquired Access Homehealth, which operates as Access Community Health | Uru Ātea

In 2016, a survey of 115 rural women by Kellogg rural scholar Nadine Porter found isolation from community & peer groups

57% felt unfulfilled as weren't using skills trained for after moving from urban to rural areas & 75% used social media

In 2017, RWNZ's newsletter distributed information about Univ. of Waikato research project on farm safety

150 rural women respondents identified common risks as vehicles (95%); machinery (90%); chemicals (85%) & animals (86%)

By 2018, RWNZ membership was 2000 & it continued with its public policy work & international advocacy for rural women

(RNZ interview (22 Sept 2018): WDNZ President Fiona Gower attended the Convention on Status of Women held by UN at NY)

In Feb 2018, RWNZ voiced concern at Stuff's proposal to cease 28 publications as would further isolate rural communities

(RNZ interview (22 Feb 2018): Rural Women's President Fiona Gower)

Contributions to RWNZ nationally & regionally have been recognised by New Year Honours & King's/Queen's Birthday Honours

(In 2025, New Year recipients 'For services to the community' medal: Sandra Curd, Patricia Macaulay, & Margaret Vickers)

Regional events include face-to-face & online professional development

(Image: Collaborations with other organisations have included regional 'Farm Environment Planning' webinars)

RWNZ & its branches continue to connect with & celebrate with a variety of events & activities

(Image: Clifden Rural Women celebrated their 90 years anniversary with a cruise in 25 Nov 2020)

In May 2022, RWNZ voiced concerns over the Pae Ora Healthy Futures Bill not including a rural strategy

(RNZ's Nine to Noon (9 May 2022) included an interview with RWNZ National President Gill Naylor)

In June 2023, RWNZ was against Govt's plans to increase postage for bulk mail from 1 July 2023

(RNZ interview (8 June 2023: 8:43 mins) with RWNZ Chief Executive Gabrielle O'Brien)

In 2023, WBOP representative Emma Poole won the Young Farmer of the Year event - first female champion

The annual competition had begun in 1969 by individual clubs & has been run by a national body from 2006

As part of the centenary celebrations, the breeding of a pinky lilac rose was commissioned

(RNZ article (29 May 2025): Mangamahu-Fordell branch commissioned a nursery to breed the rose which is being sold)

For the 100 year celebrations, Rotorua Library digitised records of the Ngākuru branch of WDFF

(Image: Minutes of the Ngākuru branch of WDFF, 1934-1939 which can also be read online at Rotorua Library’s Pakiaka)

Ngākuru branch’s ephemera are the earliest records of WDFF held in Rotorua Library’s community archive

The records give an insight into rural life at the time. (Image: Minutes of the Ngākuru branch of WDFF, 1939-1948)