Auckland Fashion Week 2025 Drives 20% Ticket Growth, Boosts Local Economy
New Zealand Fashion Week: Kahuria 2025 celebrates unprecedented success with 20% ticket growth and significant economic impact on Auckland's downtown area, marking a new era in the country's fashion industry.
Models and attendees gather at Shed 10 during New Zealand Fashion Week: Kahuria 2025, showcasing local design talent
New Zealand Fashion Week: Kahuria 2025 has emerged as a powerful catalyst for Auckland's downtown revival, marking a significant milestone in the city's cultural and economic landscape with a 20% surge in ticket sales compared to 2023.
Economic Impact and Urban Revitalization
The fashion extravaganza, centered around Tāmaki Makaurau's iconic Shed 10, has demonstrated remarkable success in stimulating local business activity. MarketView data reveals that on August 29, the event's final Friday, apparel and hospitality spending in the downtown area surged by an impressive 32.1% compared to the previous week.
This economic boost echoes the broader cultural renaissance taking place in Auckland's vibrant city center, with the central waterfront area experiencing a 7.4% increase in spending, while Queen Street saw an 11.6% uptick.
Reimagining Fashion Week for Inclusivity
Murray Bevan, NZFW: Kahuria board member and Showroom 22 founder, emphasizes the event's transformative approach: "We assembled a new team to bring fresh ideas and structure to the 2025 event." This reimagining includes a more accessible format for both designers and the public, reflecting the industry's commitment to democratizing fashion.
Strategic Partnerships and Future Growth
The securing of Giltrap Group as naming rights sponsor for the next three years represents a significant milestone in New Zealand's commitment to sustainable event development. This partnership, combined with support from Auckland Council's Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, establishes a robust foundation for the event's future growth.
Expanding Horizons: Christchurch Edition
The announcement of NZFW: Kahuria's expansion to Ōtautahi Christchurch in November signals a new chapter in New Zealand's fashion narrative. The South Island event promises a curated selection of shows, panel discussions, and styling workshops, extending the fashion week's influence beyond its Auckland origins.
"The 2025 Christchurch event will be a considered and condensed version of what NZFW can deliver, aimed at inspiring fashion fans down south to enjoy everything the fashion industry has to offer," states Bevan.
Ella Thompson
Ella Thompson is a Wellington-based journalist covering politics, climate policy, and digital freedoms in the Pacific. With a background in law and international relations, she brings sharp analysis and a passion for civic accountability.