Weaving a new pattern: women political leaders in local government

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the question of whether women mayors believe they make a difference as political leaders. Information is provided on recent changes in New Zealand local government and brings together profiles of the 36 women mayors who have held office in New Zealand local government before 1995. Factors which have contributed to their success at the polls are identified. The literature on political leadership is reviewed and a case is made for a bias against women in this research. The literature also shows the need for empirical research on women's experiences as political leaders and the impact they are having in this role. The results of in-depth interviews with women mayors and regional council chairpersons in office in New Zealand local government in the 1992-1995 electoral term are presented. The thesis concludes that, in the view of these women, their gender does make a difference; their efforts have, to an extent, been assisted by the reformed environment in which they work; and their direct election to this political leadership position has been a major factor in a higher number of women mayors being elected in this country than elsewhere.