Alex Cater is having a moment. Six months after signing with 62 Management, the model has become one of the most in-demand faces at New Zealand Fashion Week, booking 10 shows across six days. For a newcomer, it's a remarkable rise, one that speaks to a shifting industry where fresh perspectives and diverse representation are finally taking centre stage.
Cater sat down with Viva's Ashleigh Cometti at the Northern Club, fresh from walking in Claudia Li's show, a designer whose 2025 runway marked Cater's first ever NZFW booking. Now, a year later, Cater is a fixture of the schedule, from the opening show to Zambesi and Viva Greatest Hits.
What is the energy like backstage at NZFW?
For Cater, the backstage atmosphere is a blend of adrenaline and artistry. “When you're backstage, it's so exciting to finally see everyone in their looks and the whole show coming together,” Cater says. “The energy is always super hype, with some controlled chaos and nerves. Before you know it, it's all over.”
That mix of controlled chaos and creative collaboration is part of what draws Cater to the industry. Modelling, they explain, has been a journey of self-discovery since starting at 19. “If I could go back in time I would tell myself to not be afraid to go out there and be a little bit different and weird,” Cater reflects.
How does a model prepare for a marathon fashion week?
Sustainability, it turns out, is also a skincare philosophy. Cater's pre-fashion week ritual is simple and hydrating, with sunscreen as a non-negotiable. Between shows, the soundtrack matters: house, techno, 90s R&B and Charli XCX keep energy levels up, while freshly bleached eyebrows are a signature touch.
Backstage downtime is for connection. Cater loves meeting new people and capturing behind-the-scenes moments on a film camera. Evenings are reserved for rereading The Odyssey, a grounding ritual amid the whirlwind.
What does the future of modelling in New Zealand look like?
Cater is optimistic about the direction of the industry. “I think the fashion and modelling industries have gotten so much more exposure, visibility, and accessibility,” they say. “I'm really excited for the amount of diversity and inclusivity that will bring.”
For aspiring models, Cater's advice is grounded in collaboration. “There's a lot of work behind the scenes that goes into developing your model portfolio,” they note. “I started by getting involved in my local fashion scene and reaching out to fashion students, designers and creatives, or even a friend with a nice camera.”
Quick hits with Alex Cater
Favourite spot to fuel up before NZFW? Any place that does a good matcha.
Favourite way to unwind after a long day? A little dance to a good playlist.
Favourite beauty item to bring to a show? Lip balm.
Favourite accessory to elevate any outfit? Scarves, or wearing ties as scarves.
Favourite fashion content creator? Wisdom Kaye, after growing up on Bestdressed's YouTube vlogs.
As NZFW continues, Cater's trajectory signals a broader evolution: a fashion week that is more accessible, more diverse and more open to the weird and wonderful. That's a future worth walking towards.
Photo: NZ Herald