Dame Silvia Cartwright: That Woman

Dismissed as a feminist disruptor and accused of leading a witch-hunt, Dame Silvia Cartwright’s work heading the 1988 Cervical Cancer Inquiry is now recognised as a turning point in public health accountability, exposing medical malpractice and igniting national controversy.

From being one of only two women studying law at Otago to becoming NZ’s first female High Court Judge and later Governor-General, Cartwright has reshaped our legal landscape and women’s healthcare in Aotearoa. She was also an international trial judge in Cambodia, presiding over trials of Khmer Rouge leaders accused of genocide and crimes against humanity.

In her memoir, That Woman, she threads personal story with national history. Anna Fifield joins her to discuss courage, reform, and the enduring fight for justice.

Verb's official Festival Bookseller, Unity Books will be on-site bookselling, and Dame Silvia Cartwright will be book signing after the event.

This event is part of the 2026 Verb Readers & Writers Festival. Please see verbwellington.nz for more information.

Festival Passes are a great way to save money and enjoy the full festival experience: just $80 for a 4-event pass. They are available until midday Thursday 24 September.

Many thanks to our generous funders, sponsors and members of Verb Community in supporting Verb Readers & Writers Festival 2026.