A Legacy of Service and Resilience: The Role of Women in Volunteering

The history of volunteering in New Zealand is deeply intertwined with the contributions of women, who have played a pivotal role in shaping the social and community landscape of the nation. From the early 1900s, New Zealand women have been at the forefront of volunteerism, driven by a commitment to community welfare, social justice, and the well-being of future generations. Their involvement has not only addressed pressing social needs but has also contributed to the advancement of women's rights and leadership within New Zealand society.

Early 1900s: The Foundation of Women's Volunteerism

The early 20th century was a period of significant social and political change in New Zealand. Women had achieved the right to vote in 1893, making New Zealand the first country in the world to grant universal suffrage to women. This newfound political power emboldened women to take on more active roles in public life, including volunteering.

Women’s volunteerism during this era was often centred around social reform, education, and healthcare. Many middle-class Pākehā (European) women were involved in charitable organisations such as the Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) and the National Council of Women (NCW). These groups advocated for issues like temperance, suffrage, and social welfare, reflecting the broader progressive movements of the time.

The WCTU, for instance, was instrumental in advocating for the prohibition of alcohol and for the protection of women and children from domestic violence. Their work extended beyond mere advocacy; they provided direct support to women and children in need, established refuges, and educated the public on social issues. Through these efforts, women volunteers became a powerful force for social change.

World War I: Women on the Home Front

The outbreak of World War I in 1914 marked a significant shift in the role of women in volunteering. As men went off to fight, women were left to manage the home front. This period saw a surge in volunteer activities, with women organising and participating in efforts to support soldiers and their families.

Women's patriotic organisations, such as the Red Cross and the Women's Patriotic Association, were at the forefront of these efforts. They organised fundraising events, knitted garments for soldiers, prepared care packages, and provided emotional support to families who had lost loved ones. These activities not only contributed to the war effort but also reinforced the importance of women’s roles in community cohesion and national morale.

For Māori women, the war also presented an opportunity to contribute to their communities and the nation. Many Māori women were involved in efforts to support Māori soldiers and their families, drawing on traditional practices of communal support and kinship. They organised hui (gatherings) to raise funds, provided hospitality to returning soldiers, and worked to ensure that the needs of Māori communities were addressed during the challenging war years.

The Interwar Period and the Great Depression

The period between the two world wars saw continued involvement of women in volunteerism, particularly in response to the economic challenges posed by the Great Depression. As unemployment soared and poverty increased, women’s organisations stepped in to provide relief and support to those affected.

The Country Women’s Institute (CWI), established in 1921, became a key organisation during this period. It aimed to improve the lives of rural women through education, social support, and community service. The CWI's efforts included organising social events, educational programmes, and initiatives to improve rural health and well-being. This organisation played a crucial role in empowering rural women, who often faced isolation and limited access to services.

Māori women also continued their volunteer work during this period, often focusing on the preservation and revitalisation of Māori culture and language. The Māori Women’s Welfare League, founded in 1951, though outside the 1900s scope, grew out of the interwar efforts to address the social and health challenges facing Māori communities. These efforts were particularly important as Māori communities navigated the pressures of urbanization and cultural change.

World War II: Expanding Roles and Recognition

The Second World War further expanded the role of women in volunteering. With the men again off to war, women took on even greater responsibilities in supporting the war effort. The New Zealand Women’s War Service Auxiliary (WWSA) was established, coordinating a wide range of volunteer activities, from nursing and first aid to driving ambulances and managing supply depots.

Māori women played a significant role during World War II, both in supporting the war effort and in advocating for the rights of Māori soldiers and their families. Their contributions were recognised both within their communities and by the wider society, marking a significant moment in the history of Māori women’s activism.

Post-War Era: Building on a Legacy of Service

After the war, the legacy of women’s volunteerism continued to grow. The post-war era saw the expansion of welfare state services in New Zealand, but women’s volunteer organisations remained vital, particularly in areas where state services were lacking or where community-specific needs were unmet.

Organisations like the Plunket Society, which provided healthcare and support for mothers and babies, became a cornerstone of women’s volunteer efforts in the mid-20th century. Women volunteers were instrumental in ensuring the success of such initiatives, contributing to significant improvements in public health and child welfare.

For Māori women, the post-war period was a time of increased activism and leadership within their communities. The Māori Women’s Welfare League played a crucial role in advocating for Māori rights, health, and education. Their work laid the groundwork for future generations of Māori women leaders and volunteers.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Leadership and Change

The historical role of women in volunteering in New Zealand, including the vital contributions of Māori women, is a testament to their resilience, leadership, and commitment to social justice. From the early 1900s through the challenges of world wars and economic hardship, women have been at the heart of New Zealand’s volunteer movements, shaping the nation’s social fabric and advancing the well-being of its communities. Today, their legacy continues to inspire new generations of women to volunteer, lead, and make a difference in their communities.

Written by: Cheryll Martin QSO, Volunteering Auckland