The Common Material event will take place at City Gallery Wellington from June 5 to June 7, 2026. This initiative aims to establish a biennial for New Zealand’s design community.
Four Wellington fashion labels will participate: Yu Mei, JPALM, Kowtow, and twenty-seven names. City Gallery Wellington is hosting the event, marking its first public opening in over two years.
Jessie Wong and Charlotte Davy are leading the initiative. Wong stated, “Wellington produces an extraordinary concentration of talent.” Davy added, “City Gallery Wellington is the centre of our city’s arts community.”
Yu Mei celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2025. Kowtow, founded in 2006, is known for its commitment to circular design. Twenty-seven names has been a fixture of New Zealand fashion for 20 years.
The Wellington region is currently discussing the amalgamation of local councils including Wellington City, Porirua, Hutt City, and Upper Hutt. Upper Hutt Mayor Peri Zee has expressed concerns about this process, stating that “more options should be on the table.”
Jarred Griffiths has been hired by MartinJenkins to lead their AI practice after working at Hutt City Council. No timeline has been shared regarding the council amalgamation discussions.
