Over the past six months, the Zonta Club of Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, has led the development and installation of Wharepaku (Māori for “bathroom”) signage across district public restrooms, with plans to expand into schools, hospitals, hospitality venues and retail spaces.

The signage provides discreet and accessible information on local support services for women experiencing violence. Inspired by similar initiatives from other District 16 clubs, the Hawke’s Bay project added a unique regional touch to address local needs.

The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with the signage helping to raise both community awareness of gender-based violence and the visibility of the Zonta Club.