Wellington Women Lawyers’ Association became an official incorporated society in July 1987. Its main objectives are to work for the equal opportunity and advancement of women in the study and practice of law, to work for the reform of the law and its administration, and for the advancement of social policy, in order to promote and protect the interests of women, and to facilitate both professional and social contact and support among its members.  

Our membership includes practising lawyers, lawyers working in the public service in many capacities, judges, corporate and in-house lawyers and law students.  Legal executives and other women working in, or with an interest in or association to the law are also welcome.

We are active in the legal community and maintain contact with a variety of other organisations including the Women in Law committee which is part of the Wellington branch of New Zealand Law Society, and other women lawyers’ groups throughout the country.

We offer annual scholarships to women law students and operate a mentoring programme which links more experienced women lawyers with less experienced lawyers and law students.

We are active in the political sphere making submissions to Parliament when political issues arise of interest or concern to women arise.

WWLA hosts regular events including panel discussions, workshops, an annual quiz night which is always a highlight. We also host social drinks several times a year and an annual dinner open to all our members. For details of our upcoming events please visit our LinkedIn page.

The WWLA committee comprises members who are elected once a year at the WWLA AGM. The current committee members for the 2024/2025 year are: Imke Kitchin, Caro Rieger, Isabella Clarke, Steph Dyhrberg, Kate McKenzie-Bridle, Papalii Toti Lagolago, Ameesha Patel, Emma Baines, Emma Fountaine, Genevieve Hancock (Convenor), Dhilum Nightingale (Secretary), Natalie Bryant (Treasurer).

WWLA is an incorporated society governed by the Incorporated Societies Act 1908 (society number 349889) and by our Rules.