The countdown is on with three days to go until the lights come up on Auckland’s first Project Glow Wear runway show. Auckland Transport and Mercury are presenting the show as part of the second national reflective wear creative design competition.
Some of the winners were announced last week in Wellington and Auckland will be presenting some awards for the first time this Saturday night.
The competition challenges designers to create reflective clothing and accessories that marry high fashion with high visual impact. All entries include retro-reflective elements that highlight the wearer as they go about their early morning or evening journeys.
Auckland leaders are right behind the competition and are even getting in on the act by modelling the garments down the runway. The show will feature ‘real people models’, Councillor Chris Darby, Councillor Penny Hulse, Councillor Cathy Casey and Waitemata Local Board Chair Pippa Coom. The MC for the evening, Albert-Eden Local Board member Jessica Rose will also be sporting a garment or two during the evening.
Councillor Darby said, “This is a fun way to raise the topic of safety and transport with Aucklanders. We do everything we can to create safe places for people to walk and cycle but this group are still vulnerable road users. Helping people to illuminate themselves is one way to enhance safety as you travel in the early morning and evening. I love my commute from the North Shore by bike and I’ll remember to check out the outfit from the competition that makes it into production.”
Julia Jack, Mercury’s chief marketing officer (and enthusiastic e-bike owner) said, “At Mercury we’re all about inspiring New Zealanders to enjoy energy in more wonderful ways, which is why we love the e-bike. Over the past year we’ve been encouraging Kiwis to Ride Wonderful and join the e-bike movement, so the creativity and innovation of Project Glow Wear is a perfect fit for us. We’re looking forward to seeing some wonderful energy at the event on Saturday.”
Auckland Transport’s Manager for Walking, Cycling and Road Safety Kathryn King said, “We have loved being part of this awesome competition. It embodies what our team at AT is all about, getting people out on their bikes and on foot and at the same time keeping vulnerable road users safe. Thanks to Mercury for helping us bring the runway show to Auckland and to the politicians who are modelling on Saturday night for showing their true commitment to this important cause.”
