A suffrage breakfast, marking the 123 years since New Zealand women won the vote, began a celebration of Labour's centenary at the Community Gallery in Princes St.
Later in the morning, Labour list MP Jacinda Ardern told an audience of close to 40 people about her first steps in politics, and the meaning of being courageous.
There were examples of women acting courageously, feeling fear but going ahead anyway, everywhere.
She told the stories of her own grandmother and great-grandmother, who made brave choices in difficult circumstances.
``There's enough power in everyday leaps of faith to change the world,'' Ms Ardern said.
Dunedin South Labour MP Clare Curran said the exhibition, which featured Labour history under the gaze of the likes of former leader Norman Kirk, whose photo was one of many on the gallery's walls, was months in the making.
The exhibition featured historical information on the party's involvement on issues including social security, the environment and employment.
Those subjects and more would be discussed during speeches and panels until Sunday.
