New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW) will return to Auckland’s Shed 10 from August 17 to 22, 2026, featuring a slate of designers and events that underscore its status as the country’s foremost fashion showcase. Organizers revealed an initial lineup that includes emerging and established labels such as Caitlin Crisp, Twenty-seven, and the Kāhui Collective, a group representing Māori, Pasifika, and indigenous designers.
Caitlin Crisp is set to open the week with her first solo show at the main NZFW event. Crisp, who previously presented resort wear at the inaugural Christchurch Spring Fashion Festival in November, noted the timing is significant as she had planned a solo debut in 2021 before the event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s long-awaited,” she said, reflecting on managing motherhood and her design career. Her debut promises a “feminine and fun” presentation, with plans that go beyond the traditional runway format to create an engaging experience for attendees.
Other confirmed designers include Kathryn Wilson, Taylor, and Sonnie, a children’s wear brand. The cashmere-focused label Elle & Riley will also make its NZFW debut this year. The opening show will be curated once again by stylist and creative director Dan Ahwa, who gained acclaim last year for “Into The Archives,” a runway event highlighting notable New Zealand designs from the past four decades. While details of this year’s opening event remain under wraps, Ahwa will also organize “The Studio,” a collection of curated shows featuring next-generation designers such as Harris Tapper, Rebe, Longform, and Penny Sage.
The programme will include multiple group showcases, among them Pacific Fusion, Ponsonby retailer The Shelter, youth-centered show Walk The Line, and participation by Australian retailer The Iconic. The Kāhui Collective will also present, reinforcing NZFW’s commitment to diverse cultural representation. The Future Of Fashion Driven By Giltrap Group returns, inviting emerging designers to compete for a year-long fashion scholarship, including financial support and professional mentorship.
Extending beyond the main venue, NZFW will host off-site events, including a collaboration between Christchurch streetwear brand Tough and Karangahape’s No. 7 bar and restaurant. This event will combine fashion with a culinary experience featuring chefs from London restaurants operating in Ōtautahi (Christchurch).
Liam Taylor, NZFW executive director, highlighted the strong designer interest following last year’s event and emphasized the week’s ongoing importance as a platform for New Zealand fashion. Supported by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited and the Government’s Events Boost Fund, NZFW tickets went on sale May 6 at 9 a.m., as anticipation builds for the 2026 schedule.