Header: NZDW
New Zealand Design Week (NZDW) 2026 sets out to explore the question: how does design shape People + Place? Participants will draw on a wide range of approaches (from Indigenous knowledge to contemporary practice) to examine the relationship between people and their digital, physical, and cultural surroundings. A rich programme of exhibitions, talks, workshops, and immersive experiences will support innovation and commercial growth.
NZDW Design Conference
The upcoming edition is starting today and taking place from March 2 to 10. It will feature a new central hub at Shed 10, which will serve as the event’s Design Depot, hosting the Design Conference as well as an expanded programme of workshops and exhibitions. Design Conference will feature an international lineup with former Global Art Director for Nike Running, Vincent Lowe, and the co-founder of Linehouse, Briar Hickling, confirmed as key speakers.
Partner events and a trip to Whanganui
An exclusive day trip from Auckland to the Whanganui, UNESCO City of Design, is arranged as part of the special collaboration with Whanganui & Partners and Chatham Air. Partner workshops, talks, installations, and showcases will be held between March 2 and 7, with a prestigious list of participants, including IKEA, Konei, Dulux, and Coco Republic. Speaking of partnerships, Lexus extends its partnership with the fair for the second year in a row.
Design Days and Pro Design Day
Public and Pro Design Days will take place on March 8 and March 9, across Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland). Public Design Days encourage design enthusiasts to attend a set of inspirational exhibitions, workshops, networking opportunities, and talks with local thought leaders.
A full day of talks will be held on Monday, March 9, during Pro Design Day. Dr Dani Chesson from Design Thinker Institute will discuss the role of design in an AI-led world, while Shiv Narandas, Design Director at Saatchi & Saatchi, will present a new “gardening” mindset to design. Four design districts that are part of this year’s Design Circuit can be explored through curated routes that guide visitors to selected retailers, showrooms, and public artworks, among others.
From Auckland Design Week to NZDW
Since 2023, New Zealand Design Week has brought the creativity of Aotearoa (the Māori name for the country) to the world and vice versa. Previously known as Auckland Design Week, the event celebrates all design disciplines, from architecture and digital design to fashion and furniture building.
NZDW was founded by Jen Jones, a construction leader, media figure, and avid supporter of Aotearoa’s design community. Within just a few years, NZDW has turned into an impactful event championing creativity and innovation, with thousands of visitors, expert speakers, and industry professionals.
NZDW 2026 brings together a carefully curated series of talks, exhibitions, workshops, and other events, offering multiple perspectives on the power of design to shape how we live and interact. The nationally recognised event presents an opportunity to collaborate and build relationships.
