New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW) is beginning to take shape, with organisers unveiling the first lineup of designers set to show this August.
Presented by Giltrap Group, NZFW will return to Shed 10 in Auckland from 17–22 August 2026. The six-day programme will feature a mix of runway shows, designer-led events, industry talks, and public experiences, continuing its push to make fashion more accessible to a wider audience.
Opening the week is Caitlin Crisp, making her NZFW runway debut as the first headlining designer of the 2026 schedule. Known for her fresh, youthful perspective, Crisp’s show marks a notable addition to this year’s lineup. Joining her is cult-favourite label twenty-seven names, which has also been confirmed to return, generating early anticipation among fashion followers.
A key highlight of the programme is The Front Row, presented by Australia and New Zealand’s leading fashion and lifestyle platform THE ICONIC. This showcase will bring together a curated mix of local and international designers, alongside exclusive previews from AERE and mínima esenciales’ upcoming Spring/Summer 2027 collections.
Several returning shows will continue to spotlight diverse voices and emerging talent. K?hui Collective and Pacific Fusion are back on the schedule, both widely recognised for celebrating M?ori and Pasifika excellence in fashion design. Walk The Line will also return, offering a platform for secondary school students to present their work in a youth-led showcase.
Building on the momentum of last year’s revitalised event, NZFW will once again feature a series of group shows. Among them are VIVA presents Greatest Hits Vol. 1 and Vol. 2, along with Future of Fashion Driven by Giltrap Group.
Another standout is The Studio, curated by NZFW Creative Director Dan Ahwa. This showcase will spotlight a selection of contemporary designers helping shape the future of New Zealand fashion, including Harris Tapper, REBE, Longform, Penny Sage, Fringes, and Bronwyn Footwear, among others.
With more announcements expected in the coming months, NZFW 2026 is set to deliver a dynamic programme that reflects both established names and the next generation of design talent. See the full schedule.
Tickets available now from nzfashionweek.com.
Main image courtesy of NZFW.
