WALKlightly Otautahi was dreamed into existence 2022,

to promote the work of local fashion designers making eco-friendly efforts.

2022 saw the pilot showcasing of our local garment industry. The catwalk spanned the full length of the atrium at The Tannery in Woolston, Christchurch, Otautahi. We were so proud to offer this event to the public.

We have developed into an initiative with a key focus on promoting local design and construction. We believe that through the growth of this industry we can truly reduced the fashion industry's carbon footprint. Another over-looked positive effect is the ability to develop our own aesthetic identity- true to our culture.

The ultimate long term goal is to encourage textile manufacture in NZ!!! This sector has greatly diminished as Aotearoa. Factories could not compete with prices from overseas, but with the increasing focus on sustainability and enthusiasm to re-invent our 'clean-green' image, we hope to see hemp, wool and flax become major textile products once more in Aotearoa <3

There are many decisions a slow-fashion business makes to keep a minimal footprint and we celebrate these. We promote their work through Instagram, Facebook and of course our biennial catwalk. One of these processes is using second hand fabrics,  this not only reduces landfill (a huge issue for our CCC waste management) but also means less imported fabrics! Watch this space for a collaboration in process between WALKlightly and ECO central 2023!! Check out our latest Project ECO Textiles.

Reduce, reuse, REPAIR and Recycle.

Once you've done that, go out and buy something bloody gorgeous and made in NZ!

Esther Riley

WALKlightly co-ordinator