New Zealand was the first country in the British Commonwealth to admit women into the accountancy profession. At the forefront Alice Basten, remembered by Purewa today as true pioneer who paved the way for generations of women in business and public service.
After learning typing and shorthand at night school, Alice moved the Coromandel Peninsula in 1898 to work as a mining engineer’s secretary. There, Alice earned a reputation for airtight confidentiality and integrity in a cutthroat industry that was in short supply of both. Eventually moving back to Auckland with her sister Caroline, both qualified as Public Accountants and in 1911 established a Queen Street business providing reporting, typing, and accountancy services. For some years they were New Zealand’s only female public auditors and accountants.
To empower other women, Alice’s business incorporated a college that trained hundreds of women in accounting and business skills, expanding professional opportunities for women across the country. Her business ran successfully for over 40 years.
In 1927, Alice became just the third woman elected to the Auckland City Council. During her time in local politics (1927–1935), she used her voice to champion practical, everyday improvements for women, such as public restrooms (even Auckland Town Hall had refused to incorporate a restroom for women) and allowing mothers to carry collapsible prams on trams. Women and families remained her priority while serving on the Parks, Reserves, and Library committees.
Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 589-0040
Appointed a Justice of the Peace in 1931 and awarded the King George V Silver Jubilee Medal in 1935.
After serving on the Auckland City Council for 8 years until1935, Alice remained active in business, community work, and advocacy, which included a leading role in the National Council of Women and work with the Civic League, the Tamaki Women’s Progressive League, and the Navy League.
She eventually retired from active public and business life before passing away in Auckland on March 6, 1955.
Remembering a true pioneer, Alice Henrietta Gertrud Basten, whose determination helped break down social and professional barriers that still resonate today.
Alice rests at Purewa Cemetery with her mother, Rachel, and sister, Caroline.
Links
Wikipedia Biography
Te Ara Biography
Alice Henrietta Gertrude BastenAged 78
