TIME TO CREATE
Information for Designers
WOOLON 2026 ENTRY INFORMATION​
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WoolOn is one of New Zealand’s iconic fashion events, encouraging both new and experienced designers to create visual, wearable pieces using New Zealand's most sustainable wool fibres. The wool fibre definition has been expanded to include alpaca, cashmere, angora goat and mohair along with the traditional sheep.
Thinking about the current economic situation and the time and expense of creating these magnificent pieces, WoolOn continues to encourage designers to re-enter creations that have been shown in another competition prior to entering WoolOn providing it has not won or placed in the same category or overall.​
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Here's everything you need to enter WoolOn 2026:​
2026 Categories
Each category winner is awarded a $600 prize package
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Streetwear - A versatile daytime outfit with a strong directional modern look.
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Avant-Garde - A garment that delights in the unconventional and unexpected
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Special Occasion - A glamorous outfit for formal occasions or special events
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Collections - Three complete cohesive looks with a common design theme
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Machine-Crafted - Designs created using machinery to knit, weave or sew. The garment is created with the use of the machine, not by hand crafting.
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Toi Tu ki Uruuruwhenua - Draw inspiration from culture across Aotearoa
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Hand-Crafted - Innovative use of hand-crafted techniques including knit, crochet, needlepoint and felt.
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Accessories - Design and craft shoes, jewellery, scarves, wraps/capes, bags and headwear
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Reuse Restyle Repurpose - Use pre-loved wool, garments or reintroduce a previous entry *(see T&Cs) to forge new ground that’s innovative and fashion-forward
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2026 Awards
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Novice - $500
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Commercial Viability Award - $500
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Menswear Award - $500
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People's Choice Award - $750
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U25 University Emerging Designer Award - $500 prize package
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U18 Secondary School Young Designer Award - $500 prize package
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U13 Primary School Designer Award - $250 prize package
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1st Runner Up Award - $1500 prize package
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2nd Runner Up Award - $1000 prize package
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Supreme Award - $5000 prize package​
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All categories include both male and female design.
Awards for Secondary and Primary designers will be announced at the Matinee event.
Download Forms
Entry forms are editable PDFs - add all information directly onto the PDF and save in the same format
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Entry form A: to be received by 31 July
Entry form B: email a copy by 14 August, and complete and send a copy with garments
Entry form C: must be sent with garments
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Email all completed forms to: designers@woolon.co.nz
Please see the Terms & Conditions, Designer Info Pack, 2026 Categories & 2026 Awards Info for all information
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