Since yesterday ( Thursday) afternoon, the search and rescue mission after the earthquake in Christchurch has become a recovery mission - retrieving victims of the disaster. Fortunately Soroptimists are safe though some damage has occurred to homes. Some 10.000 homes are estimated to have been destroyed. About 95% of electricity supply is back, around 60% have running water but sanitation facilities have a long way to go.

Members of SI North Canterbury, based in Rangiora to the north of Christchurch , have been able to help with in the centre opened up for evacuees from the city.

Over 160 are known to have died in the earthquake and the toll is likely to be over 200. We are so lucky to have our members safe.

Thank you for all the messages of support which have come in for our sisters in Christchurch - they have been passed on and much appreciated in this terrible time.

New Zeland Conference of Clubs 2011

Spirit of Grape Great Expectations

Come to Marlborough and meet a great bunch of New Zealand Soroptimists, experience a fantastic conference with inspirational speakers, workshops, meet new friends, and reaffirm old friendships.

Marlborough Convention Centre, 46 Alfred St Blenheim.   25 – 27 March 2011

25 March Registration & Friendship Night

Wesley Centre 3 Henry St 6-8pm

 Complete the Registration Form NZ Conference 2011

 SI media material forward by SWP Member Development Barbara Boston late last year.

Could be useful when issuing invitations to guest speakers and for marketing material.si_information_for_ngos