Model/Performer Auditions 2026

Open auditions for the 2025 Show were held on Sunday 4th May 2025. We will be holding auditions for the 2026 Show next May. More details will be available early 2026.

If you are interested in auditioning next year, please see below for more information.

We will be seeking dynamic movers and confident performers of all nationalities, genders, and levels of experience and invite you to come along to our 2026 model audition.

Being involved in the World of WearableArt® (WOW) Show is exciting and rewarding – an achievement you can be proud of. You will make new friends, extend your creative skills and have loads of fun along the way. You will also have the privilege of wearing incredible garments made by some of the most creative art and fashion minds from New Zealand and around the world.

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Audition FAQ

Do I have to register, or can I just turn up to the audition?

All attendees need to pre-register online by clicking the link provided. The link will be made available early 2026.

What are you looking for in a model/performer?

You need to be Wellington based.
You do not need any previous experience in modelling.
Model/performer minimum age requirement is 15 years.
Minimum height: at this stage there is no minimum height, height requirements will be determined by garment entries selected as finalists to appear in the show; specifics on height will not become available until the second audition in July.
You must be able to commit to ALL rehearsals and shows.
Be confident in front of large groups of people, performing in front of television cameras and photographers.
Able to take instructions from choreographers and directors.
Dance, performing and or modelling experience is an advantage but not essential.

What do I need to bring/wear?

Bring a water bottle, snacks/lunch.
Wear fitted comfortable clothing.
Wear flat shoes and bring high heels if possible.
If you have long hair, it must be pulled back off your face.
Wearing make-up is optional.

Could you give me some information about what may be expected of me at the model/performer audition?

When you arrive, you will be required to check in. You will have your height measured and be given a number to pin onto your top.
The audition will follow the check in process.
All attendees will be taught a short movement routine and will perform this in small groups. Attendees will also be asked to walk / use movement to make their way across the studio floor.
During the audition we will select a smaller group to stay on for the final part of the day.

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If selected as a model/performer, will I be paid?

Yes, this is a paid role.

If selected as a model/performer, how much time am I committing to?

Rehearsals start in early August and continue through until the show opens in mid-September until mid-October 2026. 100% commitment to all rehearsals and shows is absolutely essential.‍
There is a pre-show historic section and six competition sections in the show. Each section is rehearsed on different days of the week, and you will be called in only for the sections you are cast in. Most models/performers are required to rehearse 3-4 evenings and 1-2 weekend days. All Models/performers must be available for all rehearsal days and accommodate changes in the rehearsal schedule.
Rehearsals generally run Monday to Thursday evenings 5:45pm - 10:30pm Saturday and Sunday 10:00am – 6:00pm.

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Is there a dancer, circus artist or musician audition?

More information regarding this will be available later in the year.

Are you required to bring a cv or portfolio?

No.

Are there any costs associated with the audition?

No.

Is there a child audition?

More information regarding this will be available later in the year.

When will I know if I have been selected?

Within two weeks of the May audition we will confirm via email who has been selected to move forward to the next stage.
Stage two of auditions is a call back audition in July. This is by invitation only and consists of past WOW models and people selected in the May Audition.
In the July audition we will select a smaller group to attend the garment fittings in August. It is likely that all models who attend the fittings will be allocated garments, but we cannot guarantee this.

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