Nau Mai, Haere Mai!
We welcome you to join us for the 2026 Christian Women in Governance Network retreat on Thursday 12th and Friday 13th of March at Clearwater Resort in Ōtautahi.
The Network is a group of women who are emerging or experienced in governance roles. It exists to build connections and to grow the confidence and competence of women in governance in Christian and for-purpose contexts. There is strength in collaboration; we want to facilitate a community where women can learn from and encourage each other!
The costs of the retreat programme are generously covered by the Wilberforce Foundation. Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation costs. We encourage participants who are based in Christchurch to also consider staying on-site to make the most of this time.
The programme will run :
From 10:00am on Thursday, 12th March,
until 2:00pm on Friday 13th March.
Clearwater is a convenient 10-minute drive from Christchurch Airport, for those who are travelling.
Please book your accommodation directly with Clearwater, and let them know the event you are attending - there is a significant discount on accommodation using our negotiated rate. Feel free to book to come the night before and relax in this beautiful location.
Our Speakers
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Julia is a New Zealand singer-songwriter, professional speaker, and author who shares faith-filled stories of hope, healing, and resilience. She is passionate about encouraging women to communicate well across a variety of settings.
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Chris is the CEO of the Wilberforce Foundation and brings significant governance experience across Christian charitable organisations. He is committed to supporting mission-focused groups towards seeing the Gospel flourish in Aotearoa.
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Jessica is Pro-Vice-Chancellor at the University of Otago and brings significant and varied governance experience across community and faith-based entities. She is passionate about wise stewardship, ethical leadership, and serving the common good.
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Charlotte convenes the Christian Women in Governance Network, and is passionate about ensuring that no board is ever left wondering where they can find courageous and competent women to contribute to their board.
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Jade (Raukawa, Ngā Puhi, Ngāi Tahu) is the Wilberforce Māori Strategic Partnership Lead. Jade manages the Te Rongopai portfolio, shaping how the Wilberforce Foundation invests in indigenous lead initiatives. Jade is passionate about preparing boards to receive new members with cultural safety in mind.
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Claire serves on the Executive Committee of Women on Boards NZ and is Presiding Member of Saint Mark’s Anglican School. With extensive HR and governance experience, she brings insight into strengthening women’s contribution to governance in New Zealand.
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As National Director of CMFnz, Jen supports health professionals and students in living for Christ. She pioneers Vocare Hub, strengthening faith and work networks, and is a governor across finance and social services. Jen is passionate about Christ‑centred leadership and holds Law and EMBA degrees.
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Melanie is the organisational powerhouse behind the mission of the Wilberforce Foundation. Highly experienced in operations roles, Melanie ensures everything runs smoothly for people and programmes.