International Day of Older Persons 2018

Seniors who are champions for human rights are the focus of celebrations for the 2018 International Day of Older Persons. In New Zealand Minister for Seniors Hon Tracey Martin named equal pay campaigner Kristine Bartlett, 2018 New Zealander of the Year, and justice reform campaigner Kim Workman, 2018 Senior of the Year, as two examples of the kind leadership and inspiration provided by older people in this country.

Kristine Bartlett fronted the equal pay in aged care campaign that lead to tens of thousands of aged care workers, most of whom are women, receiving a large increase in pay through the pay equity settlement in 2017 to recognise the equal status of their work.

Kim Workman has tirelessly campaigned for a fairer justice system and for the principles of restorative justice.

Let us celebrate the contribution of all older people every day and continue the work to build age-friendly community in this country and internationally.