Equality for men and women is not always guaranteed, prompting the need to celebrate and promote Suffrage Day, a self-proclaimed feminist says.

Jessie Moss, who commemorated Suffrage Day in Timaru yesterday, said it was important to celebrate and recognise how far we have come as a country.

Suffrage Day marks the anniversary of those who pioneered New Zealand women's right to vote in 1893.

However, Ms Moss said that in some respects equality has been challenged and taken away from some people, both men and women.

She said the Government's decision to fire Environment Canterbury councillors and install government-appointed commissioners was one example.

She said that problem had continued since the Christchurch earthquakes, following the Government's decision to keep ECan's commissioners.

Ultimately Cantabrians did not get to vote and did not know the new representatives very well, she said.

Women's Affairs Minister Jo Goodhew also celebrated Suffrage Day with a breakfast at Parliament. She said the Government was committed to improving the country's economic independence, improved safety from violence and increased representation in all levels and types of leadership for women. “The Government is committed to doing its part to make this a reality."

- © Fairfax NZ News

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