Marlburians in Rural Women NZ celebrate double centennial

When Marlburian members of Rural Women New Zealand gather this afternoon (18 February) to fete the organisation’s centennial year, another 100-year milestone will hit especially close to home.

The Mahakipawa Branch, one of five in the Marlborough Provincial area, reaches triple digits this year. Other branches are Blenheim/Wairau, Kenepuru Sounds, Pelorus Sounds, and Rai Valley.

In July 1925, sixteen women who travelled with their husbands to a conference in Wellington founded the organisation, known initially as the Women’s Division of Farmers Union. The group developed into Women’s Division Federated Farmers of NZ by 1946; the name changed to Rural Women NZ in 1999.

Glenda Robb, a Marlborough Provincial vice president in RWNZ, notes the pioneering efforts of Nellie Schroder MBE, formerly of Rai Valley, who started branches in the region.

“Nellie was a very capable and enthusiastic member,” Glenda said. She was a former Dominion President and was inspired by the work of WDFF in ‘service to the country for countrywomen’.”

The local celebration of the national anniversary – a garden party in Blenheim with afternoon high tea – has a guest list including Mayor Nadine Taylor, Councillor Barbara Faulls, FFNZ President Evan White, RWNZ Region 3 Leader Barbara Mckay, and RWNZ National Centennial Committee member Sharron Martyn-Davies.

Ellen Orchard is provincial president and Melva Robb, Glenda’s sister, is provincial secretary.

Meanwhile, RWNZ continues to accept entries for the 2026 NZI Rural Women Business Awards. Among the 2024 winners were Marlburians Dansy Coppell and Nicola Smith.