Named the New Zealand Festival of Design, the 10-day festival will be anchored in Whanganui – Aotearoa's UNESCO City of Design – and extend across the wider Whanganui-Manawatū region bringing together designers, technologists, businesses and communities.
Whanganui Mayor, Andrew Tripe, says Whanganui is proud to showcase its design credentials to the world.
"As New Zealand’s only UNESCO City of Design, we are uniquely positioned to host this landmark festival and warmly welcome the design community to experience the creativity, culture and beauty of the place we call home. The festival also provides an opportunity for our city to further explore the impact of design on the world and to bring the meaning and value of design to life.”
The festival, presented by Whanganui District Council in partnership with Palmerston North City Council and Central Economic Development Agency (CEDA) will showcase how design influences the way New Zealanders live, work and connect, presenting a curated programme of exhibitions, talks, workshops, installations and public activations.
Palmerston North Mayor, Grant Smith, says Palmerston North is excited to partner with Whanganui District Council and CEDA to support the New Zealand Festival of Design and the creatives who call our region home.
"The festival is an opportunity to showcase creativity and collaboration across Whanganui-Manawatū, while creating new pathways for our designers, makers, artists and innovators to thrive."
Developed to engage both industry professionals and the wider public, the New Zealand Festival of Design will provide opportunities to see, test and co-create the future of design in Aotearoa.
The New Zealand Festival of Design has been made possible through the government’s Events Boost Fund.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says this is one of many exciting events the Government is supporting throughout the country in 2026.
“From world-class international and homegrown musical acts to sports fixtures and arts and cultural celebrations, these events will bring fans, visitors and a big boost to New Zealand’s economy.”
The New Zealand Festival of Design is now calling for submissions, with a particular focus on showcasing the depth of creative talent within the Whanganui-Manawatū region, while also welcoming participation from across Aotearoa and beyond.
Designers, makers, artists and innovators are invited to submit proposals to be part of the inaugural programme. Submissions are now open at festivalofdesign.co.nz
New Zealand Festival of Design
16–25 October 2026
Whanganui and Palmerston North
www.festivalofdesign.co.nz