In a statement, the owner of New Zealand Fashion Week Feroz Ali said a “strategic decision” had been made to cancel this year’s event and regroup for next year.
“Due to the economic downturn and pressures on consumer spending which has affected the Fashion industry and its supporters, New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW) has made the strategic decision to transition the annual event to a biennial schedule.”
Usually held annually at Auckland’s Viaduct Events Centre in late August, the next NZ Fashion Week will now be held in the second half of 2025.
“The reality is that consumer confidence is at an all-time low and the fashion retail industry has been particularly affected by the reduced consumer spending,” Ali said.
Although the event already had a number of key sponsors and a “strong cohort of committed designers” they didn’t have enough for a week-long schedule to make the event viable this year.
The team behind the event had taken on board feedback from designers around the country, “who tell us they need dedicated time and space to focus on their core retail business”.
“With such strong economic headwinds, it has become clear this year is a time for consolidation,” said Ali.
“A pause will also allow time for the Wynyard Quarter crossing bridge to be repaired, its continued closure presenting a significant challenge for public attendance and access to the Viaduct Events Centre.”
