Two Southland women are among more than 60 high-achieving New Zealanders named as 2021 Women of Influence Awards finalists today.

They are Christine Laing, Programme Manager at the Southern Institute of Technology in Invercargill (Environment category) and Carolyn Clegg, Vice President of New Zealand Shearing Contractors Association, Te Anau (Primary Industries category).

Dr Laing said it was an absolute honour to have been named amongst all the incredible nominees that are doing amazing mahi around Aotearoa.

Mrs Clegg said it had been a huge surprise but privilege to have been nominated and being announced a finalist had blown her away.

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Now into its ninth year, the prestigious awards recognise women making a difference in the work they do and paving the way for other women to thrive. Many have overcome hardships, and some have saved the lives of others through their work.

Nominees are judged on the strength, scope and impact of their actions across 10 categories including Arts & Culture, Environment, Innovation, Science and Research, and Public Policy.

A Women of Influence Supreme Winner is also chosen from among the 10 category winners.

Previous Supreme Winners have included microbiologist and science communicator Siouxsie Wiles (2020), neonatologist Dame Jane Harding (2019) and founder of domestic violence charity The Aunties, Jackie Clark (2018).

Both Southland women hope to attend the awards gala dinner, hosted by Westpac NZ and Stuff in Auckland on February 10, covid restrictions allowing.