The first announcement of designers taking part in New Zealand Fashion Week 2026 offers a taster of what to expect from the biggest fashion event of the year.
Returning to the runway in Auckland this August are a selection of the country’s recognisable labels, as well as opportunities for emerging talent to step into the spotlight and for the public to get involved.
In the past, unless you were part of the media, friends with the designer or had a high profile, NZ Fashion Week largely had to be viewed from afar. This year’s event still has an exclusive feel, but there are a number of formats and ticketed events designed to better connect the industry and fashion-lovers over the week-long event.
Among those confirmed to be hosting their own fashion shows include Juliette Hogan, Caitlin Crisp, Taylor, Twenty-Seven Names and Kathryn Wilson.
Headlining the schedule and for the first time showing solo at the Auckland event is Caitlin Crisp. The Christchurch-born, Auckland-based designer known for her feminine, romantic daywear and event dressing was a headline drawcard at NZFW’s spin-off event, the Christchurch Spring Fashion Festival, last November.
Her slot as the first designer show is a natural progression for the designer, whose first involvement came as part of a NZFW graduate show 8 years ago.
Another debut to look out for is the involvement of New Zealand cashmere label Elle & Riley. The brand has significantly extended its range of luxury cashmere clothing in recent years – including opening a store in Beverly Hills in Los Angeles – and joins the NZ Fashion Week schedule for the first time.
Kāhui Collective and Pacific Fusion – two shows that have become true celebrations of Māori and Pasifika excellence in fashion design – have been confirmed, once again playing an important part in the event.
Walk The Line will offer guests a glimpse at the new generation stepping up, with a youth-led showcase of secondary school design talent.
Two group show highlights include a presentation by Australasian shopping retailer THE ICONIC, and The Studio, a show curated by top stylist Dan Ahwa that will provide a platform for some of the country’s sought-after contemporary designers including Harris Tapper, REBE, Longform, Penny Sage, Fringes, Rhoda Nunn and Bronwyn Footwear.
New Zealand Fashion Week will unfold from August 17–22 at Shed 10 on Auckland’s Queen’s Wharf.
To see the full schedule and to book tickets, see nzfashionweek.com from May 6.
NZ Fashion Week 2026 schedule highlights
Confirmed shows:
Caitlin Crisp
Elle & Riley
Juliette Hogan
Kathryn Wilson
Kāhui Collective
Pacific Fusion
Sonnie
Taylor
THE ICONIC
The Shelter
Tough
twenty-seven names
Walk the Line
