Festival of Design Aotearoa

Celebrating how design shapes life in New Zealand and beyond.

Whanganui and Palmerston North, 16-25 October 2026

New Zealand's most exciting design event is coming this October. Celebrate how design shapes our lives with over 50 free or ticketed events including talks, exhibitions, installations, performances, guided tours, markets and public activations; plus more than 50 local and international presenters. 

Whether you’re a designer, creative, educator, student, architect, business owner or simply curious about the world around you, we invite you to join us between 16-25 October 2026 in Whanganui, UNESCO City of Design and Palmerston North. 

Take a look at the programme and discover the ideas, people and creativity that are influencing the future of design, then sign up for festival updates as more presenters and events are announced.

Explore the programme