WoolOn Creative Fashion Event
Description
WoolOn Creative Fashion Event 2026
Experience a fabulous weekend of wool fashion and wearable art at WoolOn 2026.
A perennial favourite on the Alexandra social calendar and held in the heart of Central Otago’s sheep country, WoolOn is New Zealand’s only creative catwalk event dedicated solely to the beauty, versatility, and sustainability of wool.
This year we celebrate 22 years of bold wool focused fashion. Whether it’s an emerging designer starting a lifetime love affair with wool or a seasoned veteran returning with fresh offerings, WoolOn is an invitation to connect with the slow fashion philosophy and the natural beauty of wool shaped with imagination and passion.
The 2026 Showcase
See the spectacular transformation of wool across nine dynamic design categories. Every garment must consist at least 75% wool, honouring traditional arts like knitting, crochet, and felting, while also showcasing future-focused design techniques.
The evening Gala Show culminates in the crowning of the Supreme Winner, a title drawing national attention to the brilliance of our creative community.
Join us for a truly memorable showcase of catwalk entertainment, imagination and flair, and celebrate the joyous possibilities of New Zealand wool.
Agenda
- 12:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Matinee Showcase - Saturday August 29
Experience the brilliance of the WoolOn runway in a row seating General Admission setting. Perfect for families, designers, and fashion fans who want a front-row view of the intricate textures and craftsmanship. Student awards will be presented. Doors open at 12.30.
- 6:15 pm - 10:30 pm
Evening Gala Awards | Saturday, August 29
Dress to impress for a glamorous night of high fashion, entertainment, and suspense as we announce the Category Winners and the 2026 Supreme Award Winner. All the fun of the WoolOn runway with a round table setting, shared platter food and bar service. Doors open at 6.15pm.
- 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Sunday Trade Expo | Sunday, August 30
Meet makers, browse boutique wool stalls, take part in hands on wool craft workshops, see the winning WoolOn garments up close at the Central Stories Museum & Art Gallery and attend a judges insight session. Gold Coin Entry.
Images from the WoolOn Creative Fashion Event 2024
Sponsors WoolOn 2026 - Supreme Winner & 1st/2ndRunner Ups
Devold of New Zealand & Norway
Sponsor WoolOn 2026 'Supreme Winner'
Hawkeswood Mining
Sponsor WoolOn 2026 '1st Runner Up'
Maitai Insurance & Accelerate Engine
Sponsor WoolOn 2026 '2nd Runner Up'
WoolOn 2026 Category Sponsors
WoolOn 2026 Award Sponsors
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
