History

Where did this competition begin and where is it going? Let us share our story…

Our Mission.

To provide, on an annual basis in the form of a stage show, a professional, fun and supportive learning platform for designers to showcase their creativity through a wearable art design.

Where it all began

North Canterbury Wearable Arts started off as a fundraiser for the Oxford Area School back in 2010 and was then named - Oxford’s Wearable Arts.

The show proved a great success, filling the local GP hall to capacity and so it became a major event to attend in Oxford’s calendar.

The show has survived the ChCh earthquake and pandemic and continues to draw some amazing creators of wearable art costumes.

Milestone Moments

In 2019 the show changed its name to North Canterbury Wearable Arts and moved from Oxford to the Rangiora Town Hall. This was to make it more accessible to the wider Canterbury community.

In 2023, with the restructuring of the Rangiora Town Hall, the show was forced to move again and this time, found a superb venue in the Rangiora Baptist Church Auditorium where we were able to have a stage with a wrap-around audience.

The future of wearable arts in North Canterbury

The show continues to grow and improve with each year and with the engagement of Event Goals to help lift the experience for both the participants and the audience, this is a show to keep on the calendar and participate in.

Join Us!

Get in touch if you are interested in becoming a volunteer on the team, supporting us as a sponsor or participating as a designer. We’d love to tell you more about our event!