Amy Pearl, a care worker, of Wanaka, said the idea to hold the free convention was prompted by "growing momentum'' within the feminist and political community over the past year.
"When you have such a momentum building you don't want to let that go.
"It needs to be nurtured so it doesn't dissipate.''
Ms Pearl said "terrible statistics'', such as those showing New Zealand had one of the highest domestic violence rates in the OECD, brought gender equality issues to the fore.
Despite such statistics, funding for women's organisations across New Zealand was scarce.
The convention, she said, would have a slightly different style to other women's conventions in that it would have a "holistic approach'' by bringing together speakers from sectors including business, health, media, politics and the arts.
"It [the convention] will encompass many things and provide an opportunity for the various groups to learn what our current status is in all of the other areas."
Speakers at the two-day event will include Maori Women's Welfare League president Prue Kapua, former Green Party MP Sue Kedgley, journalist Paula Penfold and National Council of Women president Rae Duff.
- Margot Taylor
