Event showcases Kiwi creativity
New Zealand Design Week (NZDW) has wrapped up its biggest year yet with record attendances and international guests.
Across the nine-day programme, registrations increased by 70 per cent compared with 2025. More than 100 speakers contributed to 49 sessions at 30 events spanning architecture, product design, fashion, branding and innovation.
Sessions at Shed 10 on Auckland’s waterfront brought together thousands of guests with designers taking the stage to share the different paths their work has taken and the impact they are making globally.
“It was our best showcase of New Zealand creativity yet,” says Jen Jones, founder of NZDW.
Andrew Davis, vice-president of Lexus NZ, adds: “It makes sense for us to be part of design week as design is such a big part of who we are. It’s integrated into everything we do, especially our vehicles, so being able to support designers and see that work come to life in this way is special.”
Jones says the week’s shift isn’t just in scale, but in how people are showing up. “People are engaging with it differently now. They’re not just dipping in for one session. They are building out their week and leaning into it.
“That tells us a lot about where design is heading and it’s exciting. We’re inspiring designers across all disciplines and proving you can punch at a global scale in design from the edge of the world. Being from Aotearoa shouldn’t hold you back, it’s a superpower.”
Throughout the week, Lexus created a strong presence at Shed 10, showcasing the all-new RZ, its first dedicated EV with yoke steering and steer-by-wire.
Alongside this, Lexus Design Award winners’ prototypes were exhibited, giving them the opportunity to share their work with industry leaders and guests from overseas.
“It’s about giving the next generation of designers a platform,” says Davis. “A lot are still finding their way and are in the job market, so being able to get their work in front of people they look up to and connect with is special. That’s where this award has real value.”
Several standout moments defined the week, including a sold-out Lexus-hosted lunch, pictured, that exceeded capacity and near full attendance across the design conference.
Jones says: “Having Lexus back again means we can think bigger and reach more people. We’re already seeing the ripple effects of that.” Next year’s NZDW runs from March 1-9.
