New Zealand was the first self-governing country in history to give women the vote.
This was achieved only after a determined campaign which brought together women from all walks of life around the county in support of their rights.
Despite limited communication and the transportation difficulties of the 19th century, women organised a careful strategy of political action throughout the country. Their tactics included petitions, public meetings, new organisations, deputations to Parliament, resolutions to Members of Parliament, letters to newspapers and publications of pamphlets.
The Women's Christian Temperance Union saw this vote as a way for women to gain the power to protect their families from the evils of drink.
In 1893, 85% of women registered to vote and 65% of New Zealand women actually voted. In Cambridge there were 225 women registered on the Electoral Roll.
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