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Suffrage and the White Camellia

By WCL librarians

Suffrage Day is a special day in New Zealand’s history. Sunday 19 September 2021 is Suffrage Day / White Camellia Day.

The Suffrage 125 symbol on a purple background

Why is Suffrage Day celebrated?

On the 19th of September 1893, New Zealand became the first nation in the world to grant women the right to vote. This year marks the 126th anniversary of women winning the right to vote in New Zealand. The white camellia was the symbol of the suffragists.

Did you know? November 28th 1893 was the day New Zealand women voted for first time.

What is Suffrage Day?

Suffrage Day provides an opportunity for people to celebrate New Zealand’s suffrage achievements and look for ways to benefit women.

How do we commemorate this day?

  • Wearing a white camellia. Why? These flowers were worn by people supporting women’s right to vote in New Zealand.
  • Wear a Suffrage 125 symbol. Why? The symbol draws on historical colours and icons adopted by women’s suffrage petitioners and presents them in a contemporary form.
Suffrage 125 symbol. A white camelia with "Suffrage 125 Whakatū Wahine" written in the centre, inset on a purple circle background.

Image courtesy of Manatū Wāhine | Ministry for Women.

Where can I find information about the suffragettes and and Suffrage Day?

Click here for more books about suffragettes.