Runway Revival 2026 had Errick’s packed with Ōtepoti’s most fashionable residents (believe it or not, they do exist down here). The fashion show featured a wraparound runway, twinkling lights, and the skilled Dunedin quartet, all put together by Presbyterian Support to showcase sustainable fashion.
The show’s competition consisted of 3 categories: ‘What’s Your Dunedin?’ where designers had to interpret the city through upcycled clothing, ‘Anything But Clothes’ where contestants repurposed second-hand items into innovative fashion, and ‘Lucky Dip’ where designers were given a random bag of clothing and challenged to channel it into an outfit. After a warm welcome and a karakia, the models hit the runway with style, strutting their imaginative designs with pride and purpose.
The creativity of our Ōtepoti community was obvious, from electric blanket pants, to gorgeous dresses inspired by local gothic architecture, to an upcycled wetsuit. The crowd brought the vibes, showing heartfelt support as the runway erupted into applause with each design. Ōtepoti student Chelsea said to Critic Te Ārohi that “everyone is so beautiful and talented.” Members of the audience were also pleased with how the event made fashion such a sustainable and accessible space for the public, with Chelsea adding, “I love to see what everyone's come up with, it’s just so amazing.”
Although much of the crowd were clearly seasoned fashionistas, those who hadn’t yet dipped their toe into the world of fashion felt excited and welcomed by this event. Errick’s employee Kristen was one such newbie, commenting that the event was “a very unique thing, and not something I know of happening in Dunedin before”.
Critic spoke with organiser Milla-Rose Byron after the runways were cleared, who explained that the models and designers are “spending the night showing off their designs, but also helping the community, our rangatahi and tamariki.” It was evident how much went into this event and the atmosphere of kotahitanga and a passion for sustainability ensured that the night was a hit.
Raffle tickets were also available throughout the night, with all proceeds going to Presbyterian Support. A selection of donated and curated items were also auctioned off, and all pieces were claimed by the lucky and enthusiastic bidders. Dunedin’s own wholesome version of Project Runway, if you will.
There were winners for each category on the night, arguably securing bragging rights as one of Dunedin’s most stylish residents. Mikayla Lindsay took out ‘What’s your Dunedin?’, Hannah and Ed Daniell snagged the win on ‘Anything but Clothes’, and ‘Lucky Dip’ was won by Mezza Minx.
Congratulations to all participants, we love to see the dedication to a sustainable future for our community. Fingers crossed you want to give students some fashion tips, our campus needs this.
