Law firm, Simpson Grierson has taken out the top prize at the White Camellia Awards.

The White Camellia awards celebrate organisational commitment to the Women’s Empowerment Principles, a United Nations Women and UN Global Compact initiative which encourages gender equality in the workplace.

The event was held at Government House last night and presented by the Governor - General, The Rt Hon Dame Patsy Reddy.

Simpson Grierson was the Supreme Award winner.

“The overall commitment of law firm Simpson Grierson to improving gender equality in their workplace put them head and shoulders above the rest,” says NZ WEPs Committee Chair Vicky Mee.

Simpson Grierson Partner and head of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee, Heather Ash, says the firm is thrilled with the recognition.

"It was especially meaningful to be at Government House on Women's Suffrage Day to receive the Supreme Award. These are internationally recognised awards and are aimed at encouraging organisations to empower women to ensure that we attain full equality, something which is core to the essence of our society.

"Gender equality and a zero pay gap is a fundamental part of natural justice, and it is therefore really important that we as lawyers implement it in our own business," she says.