Design sits at the heart of everything Lexus does, from the way its vehicles perform to the way they feel. It’s a philosophy that makes the brand’s continued partnership with New Zealand Design Week feel particularly fitting. Returning for the second year as Presenting Partner, Lexus New Zealand has once again backed the country’s creative community while helping place local design firmly within the global conversation.
Formerly known as Auckland Design Week, the annual programme has quickly evolved into a platform that connects emerging and established Kiwi designers with international voices. For Andrew Davis, Vice President of Lexus New Zealand, the collaboration reflects a shared belief in the power of thoughtful design. “Design shapes how our vehicles perform, how they feel and how they evolve,” he says. “Supporting New Zealand Design Week allows us to give Kiwi designers the chance to share their work on an international stage while connecting with the wider design industry.”
One of the more intimate moments within the programme arrived in the form of Women Reimagining the Future: Design, Vision, and Leadership – a lunch and panel discussion held on International Women’s Day at Daphnes in Auckland. Moderated by Alice Lines, editor of Homestyle Magazine the conversation brought together a group of creative leaders whose work spans fashion, product design, architecture and beauty. Among them were Karen Walker, Lucy Vincent, Megan Wyper, Annabel Smart and Phoebe Devine.
Across the discussion, creativity emerged not as something decorative, but as a structural part of running a business. “There’s often a perception that creativity is chaotic or wild,” Vincent explained. “But actually, creativity works best when there are restrictions. Limitations on resources or materials often lead to the most creative outcomes.” For Walker, creativity is simply part of the daily rhythm of a design-led company. “In a creative business, you show up and do it every day,” she said. “Creativity isn’t something you’re occasionally struck by.”
Supporting the next generation of designers was a key part of Lexus’ involvement through the Lexus Design Award New Zealand, a national competition aimed at helping emerging talent move their ideas beyond the classroom and into industry. The 2025 award winners presented their work during Design Week, gaining exposure to international guests and leaders across multiple design disciplines.
For Jen Jones, Founder of New Zealand Design Week, Lexus’ continued partnership signals growing momentum for the event itself. “Having Lexus return as Presenting Partner allows us to think bigger and invite further,” she said. “It shows real confidence in the future of New Zealand design.”
