New Zealand Fashion Week (NZFW) has made the strategic choice to shift the annual event to a biannual timetable, moving this year’s event from August to the second half of next year.

NZFW said the decision was based on the economic crisis and consumer spending pressures, which have impacted the fashion industry and its supporters. 

“We have been greatly heartened by the early commitment from a group of anchor designers and sponsors, in particular our naming rights partner Shark Beauty and Tataki Auckland Unlimited, media partner NZME, Ngati Whatua Orakei, Millennium Hotels & Resorts, Westfield, Resene, Go Well and the Ministry of Social Development,” the organisation wrote in a statement. 

“But 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.” 

According to NZFW, the longer duration would allow participants to better prepare and organise financial support for displaying their brands and collections. 

NZFW will provide additional updates on 2025 dates during the coming months.