About us
Women in Sport Aotearoa, Ngā Wāhine Hākinakina o Aotearoa, is Aotearoa’s champion for gender equity in sport and physical activity.
Read our Statement of Strategic Intent here.
WISPA is a charity that exists to transform society through leadership, advocacy and evidence, ensuring that all women and girls gain equity of opportunity to participate, compete and build careers in play, active recreation and sport in Aotearoa New Zealand.
We launched on UN International Women’s Day, 8 March 2017.
What is Gender Equity?
We define gender equity as ensuring fair treatment, resources, and opportunities for all genders, achieved by addressing historical and social barriers. For WISPA, this means creating a level playing field where everyone, regardless of gender, can fully participate and benefit from sport and recreation.
A Māori Perspective on Gender Equity
In te ao Māori, equity is deeply rooted in whanaungatanga (relationships) and guided by the recognition of each person’s mana (inherent dignity) and tapū (sacredness). It acknowledges that all genders have unique roles, responsibilities, and strengths, which contribute to the collective well-being of the community. The goal is not just equal treatment but equal respect and opportunities, ensuring everyone can realise their potential while maintaining balance and harmony.
Gender Equity vs. Gender Equality
While gender equality means providing the same opportunities and treatment for all, gender equity acknowledges that different groups face different challenges. Equity focuses on fairness, often requiring tailored approaches to overcome disadvantages and achieve equal outcomes. In short:
- Equality is about equal starting points.
- Equity ensures everyone can reach the same finish line.
WISPA is committed to advancing gender equity, guided by both global best practices and the unique values of Aotearoa, to build a truly inclusive sporting landscape.
Board members
-
Susan (Sooz)
Chairperson -
Erin Roxburgh
Deputy Chair & He Wāhine Toa Kei Te Kokiri -
Mere Rangihuna
Board & He Wāhine Toa Kei Te Kokiri -
Mary Gardiner
Board Member -
Pauline Harrison
Board & Foundation Member -
Tim Corbett
Board Member -
Jon “JT” Tamihere-Kemeys
Board Member -
Caroline Wethey
Board Member -
Jayne Jordan
Non-voting Associate Member
He Wāhine Toa Kei Te Kokiri
-
Peta Forrest
He Wāhine Toa Kei Te Kokiri -
Pam Elgar
Chair - He Wāhine Toa Kei Te Kokiri -
Sable Heke
He Wāhine Toa Kei Te Kokiri -
Chantal BakerSmith
He Wāhine Toa Kei Te Kokiri -
Vanessa Mill
He Wāhine Toa Kei Te Kokiri -
Erin Roxburgh
Deputy Chair & He Wāhine Toa Kei Te Kokiri -
Mere Rangihuna
Board & He Wāhine Toa Kei Te Kokiri
Foundation Members:
-
Toni-Maree Carnie
Foundation Member -
Toni Bruce
Foundation Member -
Sue Emerson
Foundation Member -
Steph Bond
Foundation Member -
Sarah Sandley
Foundation Member -
Sarah Beaman
Foundation Member -
Raewyn Lovett (ONZM)
Foundation Member -
Michelle Hollands
Foundation Member -
Meg Luff
Foundation Member -
Louisa Wall
Foundation Member -
Laura Menzies
Foundation Member -
Kirsten Patterson
Foundation Member -
Kirikaiahi Mahutariki
Foundation Member -
Kereyn Smith
Foundation Member -
Ingrid Cronin-Knight
Foundation Member -
Gaye Bryham
Foundation Member -
Dianne Williams
Foundation Member -
Debbie Curgenven
Foundation Member -
Pam Elgar
Chair - He Wāhine Toa Kei Te Kokiri -
Pauline Harrison
Board & Foundation Member -
Julie Paterson
Co-Founder -
Sarah Leberman MNZM
Co-Founder