New Zealand Fashion Week: Kahuria triumphantly returned to the stages, streets and conversation spaces of Auckland during August. As part of a newly announced long-term partnership with Giltrap Group, the rejuvenated event showcased creativity, innovation and heritage in a joyous celebration of fashion.
From archival celebrations to emerging talent, thought-provoking panels, and a remarkable Kiwi celebrity presence, New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW) is so much more than a singular event – it’s a cultural landmark.
The stories, collections, and voices that emerged during NZFW’s triumphant return during August confirmed that Aotearoa’s creative community is stronger, more inclusive, and more forward-facing than ever. This year also marked a milestone as the first in a three-year partnership with Giltrap Group as the official presenting sponsor – a collaboration that signals a new era for the event.
“Both Giltrap Group and NZFW celebrate design excellence, innovation, and attention to detail,” said Giltrap Group CEO, Steve Kenchington, in the build-up to the event. “Supporting Kiwi fashion is about investing in talent, creativity, and the wider cultural impact of Aotearoa on the world stage. There’s a real buzz in our entire team for this unique partnership.”
The renewed energy of NZFW is reflected in the vision of its creative advisor, Dan Ahwa, who also commented: "Fashion Week is more than just a runway – it’s a living archive of our culture and creativity. Partnering with Giltrap Group allows us to elevate these stories, giving designers and audiences alike an experience that blends innovation, heritage, and spectacle."
Similarly, international fashion icon, Karen Walker, observed: “Fashion Week has always been where ideas, collaborations, and culture intersect – now with Giltrap Group’s support, the stage is bigger, bolder, and more exciting than ever.”
The week felt like a celebration not only of fashion but of creativity itself – brimming with forward-focused energy. From the opening ‘Into the Archives’ show to the conversations and runway moments threaded throughout the week, attending a selection of fashion favourite events, we revelled in the pride, passion, and meticulous artistry that defines New Zealand’s fashion community.
A Grand Opening – Into the Archives
With bright lights reflecting off the gleaming curves of sensational Porsche, McLaren, Lotus and Range Rover cars from the Giltrap Group delivering models to the runway, the audience at Shed 10 on the Auckland waterfront buzzed with excitement. The sharp crackle and roar of a McLaren 750S’s engine coming to life signified that the show – and NZFW itself – was underway. Into the Archives’ weaved together three decades of local fashion narratives. Featured faces on the runway included Taika Waititi, Lorraine Downes, Bic Runga, Albert Cho, Milan Borich, and Jordan Daniels. Onlookers included musician Stan Walker, Angus McDougall from Tataki Auckland Unlimited and Petra Baghurst. It was the perfect star-studded start to what was an amazing week.
Kathryn Wilson – A Cover Star Returns to the Runway
Volvo ambassador Kathryn Wilson delivered a standout show, spotlighting a summer collection which blended metallic textures, animal prints, and pops of colour into a joyful, confident narrative. 66 Magazine’s winter edition cover star delivered a show which balanced glamour with ease, mirroring the magazine story’s celebration of brand longevity, vibrancy, and audience connection.
Beyond the Runway – Menswear Unfiltered
Presented by Cupra and moderated by Emma Gleason, the ‘Menswear Unfiltered’ panel brought together Josh Heares, Mike Beagley, and Des Rusk in conversation. Together, they explored how New Zealand designers are redefining masculinity and building global momentum. Guests also met Giltrap Group Motorsport racers Marco Giltrap, Clay Osborne, and Liam Sceats. With a Porsche 922 Cup Car on display, the event created a fantastic connection between the glitz and glamour of fashion and motorsport celebrity that has been shared over the years.
Marco Giltrap and Liam Sceats
Karen Walker and adidas – Life with Obstacles
The wait for the next Karen Walker appearance at NZFW was well worth it. In complete creative anarchy, Karen’s colourful cadets strutted with unmatchable energy, leaping over obstacles, one even powering forward on a treadmill, while music and theatrics amplified every moment. Each look was a seamless marriage of Karen Walker’s signature design and adidas’ athletic edge, creating a runway that felt as alive as it was original. Celebrity appearances included Olympic Medallist Sarah Hirini, Finnish hobby horse champion Ada Filppa and stunt performer Catherine Coker. In an adrenaline-fueled, audio-visual feast, adidas proved the perfect collaboration partner to shout Karen’s message loud and clear: “I’ve earned my stripes, now come and get yours!”
SONNIE – Pure Joy
During the week SONNIE lit up the Shed 10 runway with uncontainable joy, transforming kidswear into a performance of flips, walkovers, and fearless energy. In collaboration with Volkswagen, the brand’s spring/summer collection championed bold, sustainable fashion for the next generation. Oversized tees, clean monochrome sets and street-ready backpacks set the tone as a crew of confident kids from Neverland Studios brought the house down.
Beyond the Runway – The New Guard
Presented by Porsche, ‘The New Guard’ panel spotlighted a new wave of leadership in fashion, with Wynn Crawshaw, Lauren Tapper, Rebe Healy, and Georgia Currie candidly discussing what it takes to forge fresh paths in fashion and build a devoted following along the way. The conversation offered insight into evolving design philosophies and the realities of creative entrepreneurship shaping New Zealand fashion’s future.
Zambesi - Instrumental
Icon of local fashion, Zambesi, unveiled its ‘Instrumental’ collection with a show presented by Shark Beauty that balanced independence, innocence, and intensity. Fluid layers of natural fibres and sheer textures created ease and movement, while flashes of lace, sparkle, and bold accents cut through a grounded palette of earthy tones and monochromes. Much like the revered, meticulously engineered supercars of brand partner McLaren, Zambesi’s signature modernism – effortlessly connecting craft, emotion and form – left an indelible imprint on all who attended.