World of WearableArt Show (WOW) in Wellington

Expect the unexpected as the magic and spectacle of the World of WearableArt (WOW) Show returns. The 2025 WOW Show ‘RISE’ will be an uplifting occasion, centred around the world’s best wearable art. Set in an illuminated cityscape, the show is a celebration of creativity. It brings its inspiration and innovation to the TSB Arena stage this September.

Each night, New Zealand’s top performance talent brings extraordinary works of wearable art to life. “RISE is designed to make people feel inspired. It’s about spreading joy through creativity and creating a collective sense of awe and wonder,” says WOW Chief Executive Meg Williams.

The WOW Show combines performance, live music, aerial artistry, dance, and digital technology. “There’s nothing like WOW anywhere in the world,” says WOW Executive Creative Director Brian Burke. This year’s show will bring audiences closer than ever to the action of WOW. Walkways amongst the audience and giant projections will celebrate and showcase the works on display.

At the heart of the show is the World of WearableArt Competition. Designers from across the globe enter, spending months on their creations. Each entry showcases innovation across fashion, art, design, and costume. The world’s premier wearable art competition, WOW offers over $200,000 in prize value. Prizes are across up to 25 awards, including the coveted Supreme WOW Award. Between the creative entries and world-class performances, it’s truly a show like no other.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of WOW being held in Wellington. The shared history of the city and the show reflects Wellington’s creative spirit. Each year, the city comes alive in celebration of the country’s largest arena spectacle, and 2025 is set to be bigger than ever.

Tickets for 2025 World of WearableArt Show: RISE are on sale now.

Hero image credit: The Golden Chakra, Akhilesh Gupta & Dimple Gandhi, India.

Two shoppers look through a clothing rack while a staff member stands behind the counter in a bright cozy secondhand shop.

WOW your way

The World of WearableArt® Show is a spectacle like no other. The combination of live music, aerial artistry, dance, digital technology, and incredible works of wearable art make it an unmissable event in Wellington’s performance calendar. Just like the show, Wellington offers something for everyone. No matter who you’re heading to town with, you’ll find an itinerary that’s bound to wow the whole group.

Brian Burke - Exceutive Creative Director, World of WearableArt

From city to stage: How Wellington inspires WOW’s creative spirit

The World of WearableArt® Show's Executive Creative Director shares what’s in store for the 2025 WOW Show: RISE, and why he keeps coming back to Wellington.

A moody and dark hotel room inside The Intrepid Hotel on Ghuznee Street. A beige brick wall is surrounded by rustic accents and a double bed.

Have a laidback, luxurious stay

Wellington is a great place to treat yourself. Throughout the region, these hotels and hosted stays offer beautiful and immersive experiences that are distinctly Wellington.

Three people sit around a table covered in foot plates at Charley Noble. They are clinking wine glasses.

Spoilt for choice — your list of special occasion spots

Got something to celebrate? Or just feeling fancy? Wellington restaurants know how to make you feel special.

Racks of clothes are positioned in front of Sully's shop windows, looking out on Ghuznee Street.

Boutique shopping in Wellington

Showcasing a curated range of brands from Aotearoa and beyond, boutiques are a one-stop fashion shop. Find wardrobe staples and special pieces, with curated collections from each boutique’s owner.