NZ Fashion Week: Indigenous Culture Explodes on Runway

New Zealand Fashion Week marked its 25th anniversary this year, held at Auckland's Shed 10 and other city venues. Founded in 2001 by Dame Pieter Stewart and now led by Feroz Ali, the event featured established names, new talent, and an expanded Indigenous program. This year also included group showcases from India, Taiwan, and the US, alongside the first New Zealand Indigenous fashion symposium.

Karen Walker presented "Grand Tour" at the Auckland Art Gallery, featuring current, future, and archival pieces alongside collaborations with Adidas Originals and Levi's. Chinese-New Zealander Claudia Li, known for her romantic silhouettes, unveiled a made-to-order collection of wedding and occasion wear. Makaira Lee's By Kai offered minimalist resort wear inspired by Fijian heritage, styled with traditional woven accessories.

Australian-born designer William Fitzgerald launched his menswear label Jung-Ying, focusing on fluid tailoring from deadstock fabrics. Christchurch native Jeorge Bradford's Iti Clothes presented genderless streetwear in vibrant colours, all in one size. The Kāhui Collective, founded by Kiri Nathan, hosted a significant show featuring 16 Māori and Indigenous designers, including veteran artist Shona Tāwhiao and new label Āhuru.

Twenty-Seven Names returned with a collection inspired by collegiate style, using deadstock fabrics for pieces like a mint green miniskirt suit. Zambesi's "Song to the Siren" collection graced a runway along Ōrakei Wharf, showcasing soft tulle, mesh, and silk in a delicate colour palette. Margi Robertson presented her Nom*D line, featuring primary colours and graphic prints, alongside international labels at her boutique Plume.

Lowkey local brand Beach Brains, a collaboration between Dan Gosling and Jody Coggan, debuted with a collection of relaxed tailoring and workwear, catering to the menswear market with an elevated streetwear vibe.