I was pleased to attend the recent Voices of Women in Governance event, co-hosted by Westpac New Zealand and Manatū Wāhine Ministry for Women. The event brought together experienced and emerging leaders to share perspectives, experiences, and insights on governance in Aotearoa New Zealand.
The morning was opened by Westpac New Zealand CEO Catherine McGrath, followed by a panel discussion facilitated by Dr Shane Collins, Women in Leadership Manager at Manatū Wāhine Ministry for Women. Panellists Dame Ranjna Patel DNZM, Traci Houpapa MNZM JP CFInstD, and Jacinta Gulasekharam shared reflections from their governance journeys and discussed the experiences that have shaped their approach to leadership and governance. A recurring theme throughout the conversation was that successful governance is underpinned by a commitment to continuous learning, self-awareness, and purpose. The panellists highlighted the importance of developing resilience and confidence, seeking guidance from mentors and trusted networks, and understanding both the responsibilities of governance and the value of the perspectives and experiences each individual brings to the role.
Catherine McGrath reflected on the sense of purpose expressed by the panellists and its relevance to leadership and governance. The session also included an overview of the refreshed BoardConnector platform from Dr Shane Collins. BoardConnector provides information on governance opportunities, development programmes, and resources for those interested in governance roles within the public sector. Thank you to the organisers, speakers, and attendees for contributing to a thoughtful and informative discussion on leadership, governance, and the development of future governance talent across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Women's Health Week
Women’s Health Week recently took place from 10-16 August, offering a timely reminder to prioritise health and wellbeing. If you missed it, visit the Women’s Health Week website here for resources on a variety of topics from financial wellbeing, fertility, and menopause, presented across articles, podcasts and videos.
Sorted Money Month: Building better money habits, one step at a time
Authored by Courtney Okeroa, Member of the FSC Empower Women Working Group
Throughout August, Sorted’s Money Month encouraged Kiwis to take practical steps toward greater financial wellbeing. This year’s campaign highlighted the importance of building confidence, creating healthy money habits, and making small, consistent changes that can have a meaningful impact over time.
A key message was the value of an emergency savings account — or “buffer” — to help manage unexpected expenses and reduce financial stress.
New research from the Retirement Commission's Financial Sentiment Tracker found that simply having an emergency fund in place was linked to a more positive outlook on finances. It found that 59% of New Zealanders with an emergency fund that is growing or already adequate feel very optimistic and confident about their future.
For many women, who often balance competing priorities across work, caregiving, household budgets, and future planning, having a financial buffer can provide not just practical support, but greater peace of mind.
To help people build that cushion, Sorted has also been promoting its Buffer app — a simple tool designed to support savings goals by setting a target and tracking progress along the way. Tools like this can be especially helpful in turning good intentions into action, making saving feel more achievable and less overwhelming.
Money Month is a timely reminder that financial resilience doesn’t happen all at once — it grows through steady, achievable actions. Whether it’s setting aside a little each week or using tools like Buffer to stay on track, every step counts toward stronger financial wellbeing.