International Women’s Day 2026 in Christchurch: Give to Gain with Eliot Sinclair
Eliot Sinclair is proud to host our third annual International Women’s Day event in Christchurch on Wednesday 4 March 2026, bringing together clients, colleagues and the wider community to celebrate women’s achievements and support meaningful change.
24 Feb 2026 | 4 min read
This year’s global International Women’s Day theme, Give to Gain, highlights the power of generosity, leadership and shared opportunity. It speaks to the idea that when we invest in others, whether through mentorship, advocacy, community support or practical action, we create stronger outcomes for everyone.
Our 2026 event will reflect that theme through inspiring speakers, connection and fundraising.
What is International Women’s Day?
International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated globally on 8 March each year. It is a day to recognise the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, while also calling for greater progress towards gender equity.
Across Aotearoa New Zealand and around the world, International Women’s Day events bring people together to celebrate women’s leadership, share stories, encourage inclusion and take action that drives positive change.
At Eliot Sinclair, International Women’s Day reflects our value of Everything Shared. We see firsthand that when knowledge is passed on, opportunities are opened up and success is shared, everyone benefits. Hosting this annual event is one way we live that value, by creating space for connection within our team and contributing positively to the wider Christchurch community.
Why We Celebrate International Women’s Day
Now in its third year, our International Women’s Day event has become an important part of our annual calendar.
Through this event we:
- Celebrate and recognise the achievements of women in business and community leadership
- Create space for meaningful conversation and connection
- Support organisations making a tangible difference for women in Christchurch
- Encourage generosity in action, not just in words
International Women’s Day is not only about recognition, but also responsibility. As a professional services firm working across planning, engineering and surveying, we understand the importance of building inclusive industries and resilient communities.
Supporting Dress for Success Christchurch
Our 2026 International Women’s Day event is a fundraiser in support of Dress for Success Christchurch.
All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated directly to this outstanding local organisation, which empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing employment clothing, career development tools and ongoing support.
We will also be collecting good quality, work appropriate clothing donations during the week of 2 - 6 March, to further support their work.
Dress for Success Christchurch helps women facing barriers to employment build confidence and secure meaningful work. Supporting their mission is a practical expression of the Give to Gain philosophy. When women are equipped to thrive professionally, the benefits extend to families, workplaces and the wider community.
Our 2026 International Women’s Day Speakers
This year’s event features three accomplished and inspiring speakers who each bring a unique perspective on leadership, generosity and impact. Together, these speakers will explore what Give to Gain means in real terms and how supporting women benefits everyone.
“Lisa Plato”
“Lisa Plato is Co Founder of Plato, the South Island’s largest integrated creative agency. Over nearly two decades, she has helped scale the business from startup to national and global reach, shaping a people first culture and long term commercial success. Lisa also leads Plato Ventures, investing in businesses focused on sustainable growth, and is an experienced property developer through MP Property Group. A strong advocate of the Give to Gain philosophy, Lisa is passionate about sharing knowledge, backing others and creating value beyond business.”
“Michelle Sharp”
“Michelle Sharp is a senior leader and board director with experience across purpose led organisations, social enterprise and commercial environments. She is currently Chief Executive Director of Power of Purpose and previously served as Chief Executive Officer of UNICEF New Zealand. Michelle brings deep expertise in governance, strategy and social impact. She is passionate about investing in people, building resilient leadership and creating outcomes that benefit communities as a whole.”
“Jane Bryden”
“Jane Bryden represents Dress for Success Christchurch. She works closely with women, volunteers and community partners to create real and lasting change for those facing barriers to employment. Jane’s work directly embodies the Give to Gain theme, demonstrating how practical generosity and community support can transform lives.”
Event Details: International Women’s Day 2026 Christchurch
Date: Wednesday 4 March 2026
Time: 4.00 pm to 6.30 pm
Location: Eliot Sinclair, 20 Troup Drive, Addington, Christchurch
Tickets: $30 per person + booking fee
Guests are invited to join us from 4.00 pm for drinks and nibbles, with the speaker session beginning at 4.30 pm. The event will conclude with time to connect and continue the conversation.
This is a standing event, and we recommend comfortable shoes. By purchasing a ticket, you will also go into the draw to win a special prize pack.
The event is open to everyone. We welcome clients, industry peers, partners, friends and members of the Christchurch community.
Whether you attend to celebrate women in leadership, to connect with others, or to support Dress for Success Christchurch, your presence contributes to something meaningful.
If you are searching for International Women’s Day events in Christchurch, looking to support a local women’s charity, or wanting to engage with this year’s Give to Gain theme in a practical way, we would love you to join us. If you would like to support the event by donating good quality, work appropriate clothing to Dress for Success, donations can be made to the Eliot Sinclair Christchurch offices between 9am - 5pm Monday 2 to Friday 6 March.
Tickets are limited, visit our Eventbrite site or use the Buy Tickets button below.
Together, we can celebrate progress, share ideas and turn generosity into lasting impact.
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