New Zealand Fashion Week isn’t just about the designers sending their collections down the runway – it’s also about the fresh faces (and returning icons) bringing those looks to life.
From rising stars making their NZFW debut to seasoned models cementing their status, this year’s lineup is one to watch. We’ve rounded up the names and faces you’ll be seeing all week long – consider this your ultimate cheat sheet to the models defining NZFW 2025.
TEKJOUK PAL
A rising South Sudanese model, she’s as likely to be found with a book in hand as she is on set. She made an unforgettable debut gracing the cover of Viva’s holiday issue (photographed by Apela Bell, with creative direction by Dan Ahwa), and has since gone on to shoot with Cool Pretty Cool and star in editorials lensed by Willow Handy. With her striking presence and effortless poise, she’s fast becoming one of the most exciting new faces to watch.
INSTA: @badgyaltek
IZZY COWDELL
At just 18, Auckland-born Izzy Cowdell has already carved out her place on the global stage. She made her international debut in spectacular fashion with a Louis Vuitton exclusive at Paris Fashion Week in October 2024 – a coveted slot that put her in front of Anna Wintour and Nicolas Ghesquière and instantly marked her as one of fashion’s most promising new faces.
Since then, Izzy has gone from strength to strength: walking for top Australian labels including Aje, Lee Matthews, Beare Park, Camilla, Albus Lumen, Karla Spetic, Bianca Spender, and Permanent Vacation, while being hailed by Vogue, Fashion Journal and the NZ Herald as a breakout star of the 2025 season. Editorially, her portfolio now spans Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire and ELLE, alongside major brand campaigns across Sydney.
Represented globally by Premier Model Management in London, Supreme in New York, and Fabbrica in Milan, Izzy is described by her manager as having “that X-factor… personality, family support and an amazing work ethic” – the formula for a long-term career.
INSTA: @izzycowdell
CHRISTIAN TURNER
A proud South Aucklander, Christian is a photographer whose work has featured in exhibitions, clothing sites, and most recently, TV. While he usually works behind the lens, he’s no stranger to the spotlight – having modelled for several clothing brands. This year marks his runway debut with Pacific Fusion Fashion, bringing his natural warmth, charisma, and effortless confidence to the catwalk. With bold features and a presence that commands attention, Christian proves he’s just as at home in front of the camera as he is behind it.
INSTA: @afakas1
RUBY TOPP
SKY
Avid basketball fan, 179cm Ghanian-Kiwi Sky has only been modelling for a year and a half but has hit the ground running with multiple clients under her belt – Karen Walker, Deadly Ponies, Wynn Hamlyn, Kate Sylvester, Moochi, Ruby, Cotton On, YouKnow… the list is ever growing. Sky’s dream is to live in New York and work for the UN. Until then, juggling school, sports and fashion week is all she can do right now!
INSTA: @skyfagannn
SOPHIE EDWARDS
Sophia is a dance teacher and student from Pukekohe whose modelling career has taken off at lightning speed. Signing with Unique Models midway through NZFW bookings, she wasted no time making her mark – already landing five shows and counting, including blue-chip names like Zambesi. With her poise, talent and undeniable star quality, Sophia is shaping up to be a true superstar in the making.
INSTA: @sophiaedwards222
VENUS BLACKLAWS
Venus works in arts administration at Te Tuhi gallery in Pakuranga and is a practicing contemporary artist focusing on painting, fashion, and performance. They are a member of the emerging artist collective, The Killing. So far, they are confirmed for The Archive Show, with a few more opportunities still pending. Venus will also be performing at the closing show.
INSTA: @imyourvvvenus
DÉJALOUS PALOTA-KOPA
If having too many talents was a crime – lock her up! A law graduate with leadership awards to sweeten the deal but also a dancer, singer, and actor. But it’s on the runway and in front of the camera where she truly shines. With the elegance of an academic mind and a heart rooted in the Pacific, her presence blends grace with purpose. This year she’s the face of Pacific Fusion Fashion, set to open their showcase with a poise and presence that will make her unforgettable.
INSTA: @dayj_pk
NNAMDI UNAMADU
Nnamdi is a fast-rising star bringing both brains and charisma to the runway. A Nigerian-Kiwi and computer science student, he’s as sharp academically as he is musically – playing the saxophone, piano and guitar – and keeps equally active on the basketball court and football field.
His modelling career took off immediately, with early bookings for I Love Ugly, Huffer and You Know Clothing sparking international interest. This NZFW, Nnamdi is one to watch on standout lineups including The Keep, Lela Jacobs and the Kahui Collective.
INSTA: @nnamdiunamadu
ISLA CUTTS
With one successful NZFW under her belt, Isla Cutts is no newbie to the runway. At the time of print she is confirmed/holding nine shows for this year’s event. Juggling shows, other modelling jobs, school, ripper rugby, run club and glider pilot training is no easy feat!
INSTA: @islacutts
CHRISTELLE IBAMBASI
“I don’t just pose in the garment; I embody each piece, shaping my movements to emphasize what it feels like being in that garment, which is one of my favourite parts of being a model. Apart from fashion and architecture, I love God, family, good food, art, and dance.”
INSTA: @___christelle_____
PENNY STEMSON
Penny Stemson is firmly on the rise. Recently signed with Priscilla’s Models in Sydney, she’s already making her mark across both editorial and commercial work, proving her versatility in front of the camera. Outside of modelling, Penny splits her time between the swimming pool and exploring her passion for drama and performance – pursuits that no doubt fuel her expressive presence on the runway.
Catch Penny walking for some of NZFW’s most anticipated shows, including Juliette Hogan, Zambesi, Lela Jacobs, Karen Walker and Claudia Li.
INSTA: @penny.stemson
TIMEO ADAMS
Spotted in the stands at a rugby game in Napier just months ago, Timeo makes his NZFW debut with Pacific Fusion Fashion – his first step into modelling altogether. Born in France and raised in Aotearoa from the age of eight, this French–Māori newcomer brings an easy-going Kiwi charm to the runway but has international appeal. A sports lover more used to the field than the catwalk, he’s sidestepping out of his comfort zone-and ready to put some points on the board.
INSTA: @timeoadams
SOPHIE LINCOLN
Sophie is 18years old and was born and raised in New Zealand. When she’s not modeling, she studies veterinary nursing online. Modelling has been a significant part of her life, a creative outlet that has helped her grow in confidence. It has also given her the opportunity to meet new people and gain incredible experiences. For this year’s New Zealand Fashion Week, she is walking for Karen Walker, Kathryn Wilson, and Breast Cancer Cure.
INSTA: @sophie.linc0ln
NEVAEH MATARIA
This will be 19 year old Nevaeh’s first time walking in fashion shows ever, so it’s exciting she’s booked at least five. Whilst she was first a bit nervous to try modelling when she was scouted just over a year ago, but she has quickly become accustomed to the model life. Recently signed to Priscillas in Sydney, she’s about to embark on a full time international modelling career.
INSTA: @nevaehmata1ra
LORRAINE DOWNES
Lorraine Downes, the first and only New Zealander to win the Miss Universe title in 1983, is a Personal Stylist who believes that styling is about far more than just clothes – it’s about building confidence and helping women connect with what truly makes them shine. She loves guiding her clients to discover and develop a personal style that authentically reflects who they are, all within a fun and relaxed atmosphere. For Lorraine, the real magic happens when she sees a woman stand taller, smile brighter, and feel completely at ease in her own skin.
Lorraine is thrilled to be making her comeback to modelling at New Zealand Fashion Week 2025, walking as a mature model for the Archive Show, Karen Walker, and Breast Cancer Cure. Beyond styling and modelling, Lorraine’s greatest passion is dancing Argentine Tango, a pursuit that brings her immense joy and keeps her fit. In her dream world, she would be living in Buenos Aires, dancing tango day and night.
INSTA: @raine_downes
LUCA LONGHURST
French-Kiwi Luca Longhurst is studying Psychology and English at UOA, and is passionate about perception and interpretation of others, spending a lot of his time reading psychology literature. While he’s not learning or modelling, he enjoys thrifting and crafting new outfits, listening to music, and going on long aimless walks with headphones in. This will be his first fashion week ever, and is hoping it will kickstart many more show experiences internationally.
INSTA:@lucalonghurst
TIA EDWARDS
Tia has been singing since Year 13 and continues to take lessons, performing regularly at small events. She loves both modeling in front of the camera and working behind it, creating stories and art through film. Currently, she is pursuing a Bachelor of Communications with a major in Screen Production. Since joining Red11 in May 2025, Tia has worked with Common Equal, Penton & Co, Postie and Trelise Cooper. Actively involved in her church community, Tia contributes through fundraising, youth leadership, and music. Growing up with a passion for sports, she has explored a variety of activities including running, dance, taekwondo, and netball at both club and school levels.
INSTA: https: @tia_edwards_1_
HAN HOHEISEL
Han’s first shoot with 62 was for Porter James, and he recently had the chance to work with them again for a second time. Outside of modelling, his biggest passion is climbing, which he also competes in. This Fashion Week, he will be walking for Zambesi.
INSTA: @han.hoheisel
ZARA SYKES
Zara is on the latest cover of Newmarket Magazine and just shot with Porter James. In her downtime, she loves going op-shopping with friends. This year, she will be walking for Zambesi, Karen Walker, and Juliette Hogan. A Fashion Week regular, Zara also walked in shows in Sydney earlier this year.
INSTA: @zara._.sykes
SOPHIE SONG
Sophie has recently been working with many amazing New Zealand brands, including Ruby, Zambesi, and Beach Brains. Outside of modelling, one of her favourite hobbies is singing. This year, she will be walking for Juliette Hogan, Zambesi, and Harris Tapper.
INSTA: @sophiesong
HARPER SERGEANT
Harper recently did a creative shoot with Luke FM & Benjamin James. Outside of modelling, Harper is also in a band called BUZZ, which earlier this year was part of the Laneway pre-show. This Fashion Week, Harper will be walking for Zambesi, Karen Walker, Harris Tapper, and Juliette Hogan.
INSTA: @harpersergeant
JIN HOHEISEL
Over the past few months, Jin has worked with YouKnow Clothing, Air NZ, and Tough Auto. He recently signed with Monster Management in Europe, alongside his twin, Han. This Fashion Week, he will also be walking for Zambesi.
INSTA: @jin.hoheisel
