New Zealand Government Invests $880,000 in World of WearableArt Exhibition

The New Zealand Government has committed $880,000 from the Major Events Fund to launch a new World of WearableArt (WOW) Exhibition in Wellington in 2027. The high‑tech, immersive venue will display WOW’s most iconic garments and celebrate four decades of New Zealand creativity, innovation and storytelling. Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said the investment will showcase New Zealand talent, attract more than 1,500 international visitors and stimulate the economy. The exhibition runs alongside the annual WOW Show, the Global Wearable Art Summit and the Australian school holidays to maximise visitor numbers. An additional $400,000 from the Events Boost Fund will support international marketing and short‑term economic activity. The project also funds an education programme and the inaugural Summit, and will tour overseas after its Wellington season.