The Ngā Whetū Katoa Māori & Pasifika Matariki Wearable Arts Fashion Show at Invercargill Workingmen’s Club on Thursday showcased the talent of 25 local designers who were inspired by their influences as well as Māori culture.
Organiser Leu Wasasala said the idea of the event was to bring communities across the region together in celebration.
"It is about bringing everyone together because, in the end, it doesn’t matter where we came from — we are here now, together appreciating this place, the people and the culture."
Shaelin Moir (16) was among the models who were taking part in the show.
The Menzies College pupil wore on the catwalk a garment which was a collaboration between 16 schools across the region.
"I am pretty nervous as I’ve never done something like that, but also pretty honoured to represent the talent and work of pupils from many schools."
Designer Julienne Andrews and her daughter Ellie Andrews created a garment which represented Matariki, Mother of the Stars.
Mrs Andrews said they had been working for two weeks straight on the piece.
"We also gave her an interpretation of a cloak with feathers."
Matariki is the Māori name for the cluster of stars, also known as Pleiades, which rises in midwinter and signals the Māori New Year.
