Over 100 entries wowed the crowd at Orewa College’s Wearable Arts show, turning everyday items into couture.

Students transformed everyday household items into stunning runway-ready designs

Orewa College’s annual Wearable Arts competition once again lit up the stage, and the catwalk, with more than 100 imaginative entries from ākonga across all year levels.

This year’s creations used everything from expired paint to rice sacks, milk bottles, old ties, and curtains. Even instant coffee sachets became a couture garment. Each piece had a story behind it, and many students spent over 30 hours crafting their entry from scratch.

The highlight was the lunchtime show, where students got to strut their stuff on the runway in front of a packed audience of friends, whānau, and staff. It was a joyful celebration of creativity, sustainability, and confidence.

A huge thank you to House Leader Joel Dickinson, and especially to teacher Gail Boshard for her creativity and tireless organisation behind the scenes. Gail’s dedication to Wearable Arts each year ensures student fashion is front and centre, celebrated proudly by the kura.

Congratulations to all our winners, and thank you to everyone who took part. A special shoutout to Batten House, building on their success last year with another strong showing.

Wearable Arts placings:

Years 7 & 8: 

1st – Batten 

2nd – Sheppard 

3rd = McLaren, Blake 5

th – Nepia

Years 9 & 10: 

1st – Batten 

2nd – Blake 

3rd = Sheppard, McLaren 

5th – Nepia

Years 11–13: 

1st – Batten (Joker) 

2nd – Sheppard 

3rd – Blake 

4th = Nepia, McLaren

Overall house points so far: 

1st – Batten (J) – 68 

2nd – McLaren – 62 

3rd – Sheppard (J) – 61 

4th – Nepia (J) – 58 

5th – Blake (J) – 52

Photo credit: Megan Postlewaight

1st Place - Senior

1st Place - Year 9 & 10

1st Place - Year 7 & 8