Delicate ferns sashayed next to shredded newspaper along the runway at Riwaka School’s inaugural Matariki-themed Sustainable Fashion Show last month.
Led by the school's enviro-leaders and inspired by the recent Motueka Arts Council recycled fashion show, the event challenged pupils to create outfits using reused and recycled materials.
The young designers rose to the occasion, transforming everyday items including packing tape, plastic water bottles and chicken food sacks into eye-catching creations.
Judges assessed each entry on creativity, style, sustainability and runway flair.
First place went to Indie and Mila Dickson, whose outfits were inspired by the Matariki star Tupuārangi and featured carefully crafted flax and fern fronds.
Elise MacLean and Piper Mitchell earned second place with head-to-toe recycled designs, while Storm Puata and Eden Thomas shared third place thanks to their swishing skirts and sparkling runway presence.
Prizes included vouchers for The Smoking Barrel, Mrs Smith's Cafe and Kimi Ora Eco Resort.
Kaiako and organisers Laura Hanson and Stevee Rhind say the event was a huge success and plenty of fun for everyone involved, and they hope it will become an annual fixture.
