Gloriavale in Big Latch On

Just over 100 community groups are taking part in the Big Latch On event this year. Photo / Thinkstock

Thousands of women from around New Zealand - and the world - will take part in a mass breastfeeding event starting today.

And among just over 100 community groups taking part in the Big Latch On event this year is the Gloriavale Christian Community in Greymouth.

Dozens of mothers from the conservative community will illustrate their pro-breastfeeding views at Lake Haupiri today and tomorrow.

Gloriavale's organiser for the event, Sheryl Joy Christian, did not return messages yesterday, but it is understood the group has been a big supporter of the Big Latch On event for several years now.

A spokeswoman for Women's Health Action, which hosts the mass event, said Gloriavale was just another community of mothers wanting to participate.

"Breastfeeding is a very equalising thing. It doesn't matter how much money you've got, how big your house is or what colour or religion you are." Women's Health Action launched the Big Latch On idea 11 years ago. Now international groups have set up similar events in 31 countries.

For an event near you, visit womens-health.org.nz