Visit Kāpiti are partnering with World of WearableArt® (WOW) to present an exclusive behind the scenes event at Te Raukura ki Kāpiti on Friday, 30 October.
Spokesperson Darren Grant says this event advances a long-standing aspiration for Kāpiti’s Tourism sector, to build on the profile and visitation generated by WOW while creating a distinctive experience here on the Coast. He says it is also an important step in building relationships with nationally recognised events and creative organisations.
Behind the scenes of wearable art
Hosted by WOW’s Sarah Nathan, the evening will take audiences behind the scenes with local award-winning designers Kayla Christensen and Rebecca Bond, and renowned Wellington designer Fifi Coulston. They will share insights into their inspiration, creative processes and technical challenges. This is especially exciting as Waikanae-based designer Kayla Christensen was named the 2026 Supreme WOW Award winner for Sacred Nightfall. Kayla is a 10-time finalist and recipient of six previous WOW awards.
A creative experience with a wider Kāpiti story
Intentionally scheduled for the Friday before the second weekend of the Kāpiti Art Trail, the event provides a natural platform to encourage visitors already travelling for the Art Trail to extend their stay, while giving those travelling for this WOW event, additional opportunities to explore Kāpiti’s creative and tourism sector. This is a really effective way to leverage existing, and attract new, visitors coming to the district for both events.
Supporting Kāpiti’s creative sector
While this is a unique event experience for WOW enthusiasts and visitors, it is also being deliberately positioned as a professional development and networking opportunity for the local creative industry. Designers, artists, makers, students and creative professionals will have a unique opportunity to gain insight into established creative practice, build networks and connect with pathways into larger-scale creative opportunities. A local performer will also be featured as part of the VIP experience and foyer programme, providing another opportunity to spotlight Kāpiti’s music and creative scene.
Capacity is limited to 313 seats. VIP and general admission tickets are now available. Buy Tickets / Find Out More
