Auckland celebrates Pacific style

This colourful design is by Ming Wei Lei.

Auckland's reputation as a cultural melting pot will be celebrated tonight and tomorrow at the Westfield Style Pasifika Fashion Awards at Auckland's Town Hall.

Maori, European, Asian and Polynesian influences will combine during the awards evening, which will showcase more than 100 garments from throughout the Pacific.

Event producer Stan Wolfgramm said this year's show had attracted more entries from Australia and the Pacific Islands than ever before.

After nine years' involvement in the awards ceremony, Mr Wolfgramm said the event was something all New Zealanders could share in and be a part of.

"We're getting garments from all over New Zealand now - from the West Coast, Dunedin, Whangarei - they're just coming from everywhere.

"And the age range ... From school kids right up to grandmas, everyone's entering the show."

Entering its 13th year, the show has become a highlight of the New Zealand cultural calendar.

Prime Minister Helen Clark will present the awards at tomorrow's ceremony, which will also comprise a painted bodies section and Fa'afafine Hero section.

Local designers Liz Mitchell, Chris Roberts, Frances Hooper and Denise L'Estrange-Corbet will judge the 2006 awards, alongside Cook Island quilting expert Mary Ama.

The two shows will take place at 7.30pm today and tomorrow, at Auckland Town Hall. Tickets are available through Ticketek.