The first wave of confirmed designers showing at New Zealand Fashion Week 2026 have been announced!
Cult favourite Twenty-Seven Names have been confirmed on the NZFW 2026 schedule with a solo show, making their highly-anticipated return to the event and celebrating 20 years as a brand. The last time they showed on the schedule was 2018!
Headlining the NZFW 2026 schedule and new to the event’s Auckland catwalk is womenswear designer Caitlin Crisp, who will present the first solo designer show of the week.
Designer Caitlin Crisp.
Cashmere brand Elle & Riley will also be making their NZFW debut and celebrating their 10th anniversary.
Returning to the 2026 schedule are Juliette Hogan, Kathryn Wilson, Taylor, The Shelter, Kāhui Collective and Pacific Fusion.
This and main image: Twenty-Seven Names SS26. Photography Chloe Hill
THE ICONIC will present a group show, building on their runway debut at the Christchurch Spring Fashion Festival in 2025.
Childrenswear label Sonnie is back for a second year, following last year’s high-energy, performance-style presentation at Shed 10. Walk The Line has also secured their spot on the schedule: a youth-led showcase of secondary school design talent that has become a landmark moment on the NZFW schedule for many years.
The Thread’s Megan Robinson (left) and stylist Michiko Hylands, NZFW 2025.
Continuing NZFW’s strong connection to Christchurch, up-and-coming designer label Tough Auto – a brand focused on small-batch production of timeless clothing and leather goods – will present a unique ‘food & fashion’ event that will be open to the public. Chefs from Christchurch restaurant Londo will travel to Auckland to collaborate with local restaurant No. 7 where Tough Auto will entertain guests with an immersive event that will be a feast for the senses.
NZFW will again present three of its owned shows: VIVA Presents Greatest Hits Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 and Future of Fashion Driven by Giltrap Group.
The schedule will see a new contemporary group runway show titled The Studio, curated by NZFW creative director Dan Ahwa, The Studio will showcase some of the best contemporary designers shaping the next chapter of New Zealand fashion including Harris Tapper, REBE, Longform, Penny Sage, Fringes, Rhoda Nunn and Bronwyn Footwear.
NZFW creative director Dan Ahwa.
2025’s official Opening Event Into The Archives marked an iconic moment in NZ fashion history, and
NZFW Creative Director Dan Ahwa will again be curating the official 2026 Opening Event.
New Zealand Fashion Week 2026 is set to take place from the 17th – 22nd of August at Shed 10, presented in partnership with Giltrap Group. Tickets go on sale to a selection of NZFW 2026 shows on May 6 here.
