Dan Ahwa is a highly respected creative director, stylist, and curator at the forefront of New Zealand fashion.
With over 13 years as fashion director for Viva and Canvas magazines at the NZ Herald, Dan has shaped the way fashion is presented both editorially and commercially, combining a keen eye for visual storytelling with deep expertise in audience engagement.
@danahwa ~ 6.3K followers
This year, he earns a place on the FNZ Creators Power List for his ongoing impact on the industry, from serving as creative director and casting director for Into the Archives, NZFW 2025, to mentoring emerging creatives and curating influential exhibitions. Highlights include styling Jacinda Ardern for the cover of British Vogue, co-curating the New Zealand Fashion Museum’s travelling exhibition Moana Currents: Dressing Aotearoa Now, and co-authoring its accompanying book. He has also contributed to the industry through board membership with Mindful Fashion NZ, selection committees for the Tautai Pacific Arts Trust Fale Ship Residency, and mentorship of Arts Foundation Springboard artist Hōhua Ropate Kurene.
Dan’s client work spans both commercial and editorial projects with brands such as Kathmandu, Air New Zealand, Royal New Zealand Ballet, Apple, Cloudy Bay, Adidas, Anchor, Ensemble, Fashion Quarterly, Vogue Australia, British Vogue, GQ, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Mercedes Benz. From early roles in visual merchandising in the UK and at Louis Vuitton and Polo Ralph Lauren in New Zealand, to shaping major fashion publications, Dan is known for bridging editorial vision with commercial insight and curating content that resonates across both mass and niche audiences.
Recognised for his creativity, mentorship, and ability to elevate New Zealand fashion on both local and international stages, Dan’s influence continues to define the industry and inspire the next generation of talent.
YOU CAN FIND DAN ON INSTAGRAM HERE
