STYLE

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Innovation, craftsmanship, and a distinctly Canterbury confidence took centre stage at this year’s Hokonui Fashion Design Awards, with Ara Institute of Canterbury students and graduates taking home top honours across multiple categories. The results reaffirm Ara’s position as one of Aotearoa’s most dynamic creative institutions — a place where design is both discipline and discovery.

Mark McEntyre, Ara’s Portfolio Manager – Creative and Media, says the accolades reflect the dedication and momentum within the programme.

“The fashion team works incredibly hard to maintain close relationships with industry and keeps a sharp eye on emerging trends, whether that’s sustainability, gender-neutral design, or new fabrication techniques. It’s great to see that work reflected in the achievements of our staff and learners.”

Among the standout winners, Will Doak’s collection captured attention for its fusion of technical mastery and conceptual strength — an exploration of structure, restraint, and modern tailoring that felt both bold and timeless. His work reflects the kind of design maturity emerging from Ara’s studios: intelligent, purposeful, and quietly radical.

Much of this success can be attributed to the leadership and creative energy of Holly Liberona, whose mentorship continues to elevate the programme. Her guidance and the collaborative spirit of the Ara fashion team have cultivated an environment where young designers thrive — encouraged to take risks, explore identity, and create work that resonates on a national scale.

Ara’s presence at Hokonui this year was not only a celebration of individual excellence but of collective achievement — proof that Canterbury’s design community continues to lead through creativity, authenticity, and craft.


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Ara Winners – Hokonui Fashion Design Awards

Will Doak – Winner, Mackersy Property Open Collections Award

Finch Langford – Winner, The Merino Story Open From the Earth Award

Holly Liberona – Winner, New World Gore Sustainable Excellence Award (Ara staff)

Francesca Favel – Runner Up, Mackersy Property Open Collections Award

Holly Liberona – Runner Up, Peroni Open Gala Award

Savannah Lamar – Highly Commended, Peroni Open Gala Award

Bronté Perriam – Highly Commended, The Merino Story Open From the Earth Award