New Zealand Fashion Week has appointed Natalie Xenita to its advisory board.
The new move follows Xenita’s exit from IMG last year, after the American-based events company pulled out of running Australian Fashion Week 2025. The Australian Fashion Council (AFC) has since taken over the Australian event.
Speaking with Ragtrader, Xenita said her mission at NZ Fashion Week is to help guide and support the event to create economic and cultural contributions to the local fashion industry.
“Attending the event alongside other international delegates, as well as working with many NZ designers who made their international runway debut at Australian Fashion Week, I understand the challenges and most importantly see the immense opportunities for NZFW and its stakeholders as it enters its 24th year,” Xenita said.
“Having led Australian Fashion Week to support the fashion industry’s recovery from the pandemic, I believe that NZFW can play a vital role as the industry navigates the recession.
“The event is strategically positioned on the international fashion week calendar to lead into Fashion Month in September, connecting NZ designers with buyers and media as well as creating consumer desire for their collections.”
Xenita’s move also comes after NZFW was cancelled in 2024 due to tough retail conditions in the country. That followed its successful return to the fashion calendar in 2023 following a three-year hiatus. Organisers have since shifted the event to a biennial format, and is expected to return this year from August 25 to 30 at Auckland’s Shed 10.
“With a unique biennial format to serve the needs of its market, and commitment to sustainability and fostering a circular fashion ecosystem, I think the NZFW model is refreshingly future-focused,” Xenita said. “I look forward to working with my fellow Advisory Board Members to support the team as they bring NZFW to life at its new home at Shed 10.”
NZFW chairman and owner Feroz Ali called it an absolute privilege to have Xenita on the advisory board. “Her insights and management experience running Australian Fashion Week will be invaluable.”