About Us

Celebrating and Connecting Women in Life and Business Across Northland

Officially founded in 2023 by visionary leaders Vanessa Bennett, Darlene Smits, Dot Jones, Hilary Sumpter, and Raelene Rankin, the Northland Women’s Club (NWC) has rapidly grown from an intimate group of 12 to a thriving community of 190 members within its first year.

Our inaugural event, the NWC Charity Ball, was a remarkable success—raising $61,655 for the Breast Cancer Foundation of NZ to support Northland families. This achievement reflects the strength, passion, and generosity at the heart of our community.

Join our Online Facebook Community here and keep an eye out for upcoming events and to buy tickets here.

Back Row (left to right): Hilary Sumpter, Vivienne Mitchell, Raelene Rankin, Vanessa Bennett, Dorothy Jones, Darlene Smits, Lynley Reid
Front Row (left to right): Rachael Elliot Jones, Deborah Laing, Emma Klinac, Vicki Bell

Our Purpose

The Northland Women’s Club is a vibrant, growing network of experienced businesswomen and community leaders committed to sharing knowledge, inspiring one another, and empowering women at every stage of their career journey. Rooted in strength, shared wisdom, and a passion for life, our network creates transformative personal and community outcomes.

We facilitate this through quarterly networking luncheons, an annual signature charity event, and regular pop-up and support gatherings designed to foster connection, growth, and meaningful impact.

Founding Member Roles


Vanessa Bennett | Founding Member, President, PR & Marketing
Darlene Smits | Founding Member, Chairperson, Business Growth & Sponsors
Raelene Rankin | Founding Member, Treasurer, Sponsorship
Hilary Sumpter | Founding Member, Events
Vivienne Mitchell l Founding Member, Business Mentoring
Sharon Greig | Legal Consultant (Tamaki Legal)

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