Max Wants New Zealand To Show Off Their T-Shirts

20 May 2004 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MAX WANTS NEW ZEALAND TO SHOW OFF THEIR T-SHIRTS FOR AIR NEW ZEALAND FASHION WEEK.

CAPTION: Barbara Kendall wearing her official t shirt during the medal ceremony at the World Windsurfing champs in Turkey last month. The shirt was lent to her by her or agent, Sara Tetro for luck!

It's set to once again be one of the hottest items at Air New Zealand Fashion Week (18-21 October) and this year the official t-shirt could be designed by YOU! Traditionally, major sponsor Max has invited design students to create their idea of a funky but symbolic t-shirt for the official delegates and staff to wear during the hottest week in fashion in New Zealand.

In 2004, the decision has been made to open it up to every would-be designer in the country, not just to create a gorgeous garment but to vote on the finalists as well.

Max Managing Director David Wright wants to see the ideas of the widest number of designers possible, so he's opened up the competition to everyone in New Zealand.

"We want to see as many ideas as possible before we choose the winner and this is the best way to do it."

Max will feature entries in window displays and the winner will be determined by a combination of on-line voting and a panel of fashion judges including leading designer Kate Sylvester.

Entrants are being asked to create a design based on what they believe is the heart of New Zealand, whether it's derived from an ancient legend or a modern urban story.

"Last year's theme was the fern and that design was a great success, not only because it was inherently a symbol of New Zealand for our international guests but because it was a garment our customers loved!"

The official shirt sold out in hours across the country and Wright believes 2004's wider pool of entries will ensure the t-shirt is just as much in demand.

"Because of the association with Air New Zealand Fashion Week, it's something of a collector's item and because the t-shirt reflects exactly how we feel about New Zealand fashion and our place in the world, everyone wants to own one."

The designer of the winning t-shirt receives $2,000 cash plus tickets and VIP passes to Air New Zealand Fashion Week with Max.

Would-be designers can find out more on line at www.max.co.nz

Completed entries can be dropped into a Max store by Wednesday June 16.

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