The Fresh Faces of Fashion in Aotearoa : 5 New Models to Watch
As the fashion scene continues to evolve locally, a new wave of talent has been emerging from Aotearoa, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to the industry. From runway debuts to editorial features, these rising stars are making their mark, redefining what it means to be a model in 2025. In this roundup, we’re celebrating five exciting new faces who are set to shape the future of fashion in Aotearoa and beyond. Get to know the models who are taking the industry by storm and ushering in a new era of style, diversity, and creativity.
Photography: Karen Ishiguro
Styling: Zeenat Wilkinson
Makeup and Hair: Josie Wignall
Assisted by: Yana Kulishenko
Models :
Sophie Song, 62 Management
Hauata Jepsen, Self Agency
Nevaeh Mataira, Super Management
Matthew Lee, Super Management
Ruby Topp, Super Management
SOPHIE SONG
Star sign: Aquarius
Where are from and where is home now: Auckland, New Zealand
An artist or song you’ve been listening to: DJ Shadow
Favourite labels at the moment: RAGA MALAK, Jinghe, Coyseio
Sophie wears Rick Owens Dirt DRKSHDW Cooper Pants and Cropped Hoodie. Shoes model’s own.
HAUATA JEPSEN
Star sign: Cancer
Where is home now: Auckland
An artist or song you’ve been listening to: Xasthur
Favourite labels at the moment: Marrk Knull, Kai Ghattaura
Hauata wears Beach Brains Pleated Suit shorts with earcuffs by Jasmine Sparrow and Rabanne Link earrings. Top and shoes model’s own.
NEVAEH MATAIRA
Star sign: Libra
Where is home now: South Auckland/ Gisborne
An artist or song you’ve been listening to: Street Runner by Rod Wave
Favourite labels at the moment : Porter James
Naveyah wears Rick Owens DRKSHDW Divine Bias skirt, Entire Studios top and the Large Ear Cuff by Jasmin Sparrow.
MATTHEW LEE
Star sign: Virgo
An artist or song you’ve been listening to: Common Saints adn Olivia Dean
Favourite labels at the moment : Manaaki, Inselberg Equipment (two kiwi lables)
Matthew wears Beach Brains Baggy shorts and Cord LS Shirt. Shoes model’s own.
RUBY TOPP
Star sign: Aquarius
Where is home now: Auckland
An artist or song you’ve been listening to: Frank Ocean
Favourite labels at the moment: Stolen Girlfriends Club, Karen Walker
Ruby wears One Teaspoon Cropped Denim Utility Vest and jeans.
Credits:
Photography: Karen Ishiguro
Styling: Zeenat Wilkinson
Assisted by: Yana Kulishenko
Makeup and Hair: Josie Wignall
Model 1: Sophie Song, 62 Management
Model 2: Hauata Jepsen, Self Agency
Model 3: Nevaeh Mataira, Super Management
Model 4: Matthew Lee, Super Management
Model 5: Ruby Topp, Super Management
Ruby wears the Joanna Crop Sweatshirt by Gil Rodriguez with Entire Studios pants and Rabanne Link earrings.
