NCWNZ was inaugurated in Christchurch when women who had been active in gaining the vote for women gathered to consider how to influence social reform in general and, in particular, reforms affecting the status and conditions of women. It became a co-ordinating body comprising representatives of many women’s organisations, and providing a national voice on a wide range of issues including justice, education, employment, the environment, and family. An active affiliate to the International Council of Women, NCWNZ has, from its inception, contributed to international action for improving women’s lives.