Whitireia and WelTec students interning at prestigious World of WearableArt Show

WOW has an internship programme designed to provide ākonga with tailored and diverse professional experience. For 2025, 12 level 4 makeup artistry and nine level 3 hairdressing ākonga from Whitireia and WelTec have been appointed for internships. These interns will work under the guidance of WOW’s Heads of Department in the lead-up to and during the world-renowned show.

During the internship, ākonga will join WOW’s backstage hair and makeup teams, creating performance-ready looks for dancers, models, aerialists and more. The fast-paced, large-scale production offers invaluable experience working to professional standards, collaborating with industry experts and contributing directly to a show seen by tens of thousands.

Ākonga are required to demonstrate a high level of commitment, motivation, professionalism and technical ability. For makeup, students submitted portfolio work; for hair, applicants completed a timed ‘WOW look’ to showcase both skill and speed.

Julie Vaughan, Programme Manager for Cosmetology at Whitireia and WelTec, says the internship reflects both the calibre of the students and the strength of the institution’s industry connections.

“WOW is one of the most significant creative events in Aotearoa New Zealand and is recognised internationally for its scale, artistry and innovation. For our ākonga to gain real-world experience backstage at such an event is extraordinary and will be a highlight of their training and career pathways.”

Annabel Brown, who is studying the New Zealand Certificate in Makeup Artistry, says the opportunity feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“Being part of WOW is an incredible chance to work alongside professionals at the very top of their field and to see how a world-class show comes together behind the scenes. I know the experience will push me to grow as an artist and give me confidence for my future career.”

Whitireia and WelTec students are interning at prestigious World of WearableArt Show.

Joining the students behind the scenes will be Whitireia and WelTec tutors Michelle (Shelly) McAuley and Amanda Kisona, who are both taking on key creative roles for the 2025 WOW Show. Shelly will take on the role of Hair Supervisor, directing the styling for all performers, while Amanda returns for her eighth year at WOW in the Makeup Artist team, bringing her expertise in makeup and special effects to the production. Together, they will work alongside WOW’s industry professionals and guide student interns as they help bring the performers’ looks to life.

Since its inception in 1987, World of WearableArt has grown into a globally celebrated event that combines art, fashion, performance, and spectacle. The 2025 World of WearableArt Show: RISE will run in Wellington from 18 September to 5 October, attracting some 60,000 people to experience the internationally acclaimed celebration of art, fashion, and performance.

For the students of Whitireia and WelTec, contributing behind the scenes to this internationally acclaimed event marks a unique step into the professional creative industries.

Learn essential skills such as shampooing, applying treatments or colours under supervision, styling and reception duties. You’ll also be introduced to cutting. Develop experience working as a team member in our salon. Take the opportunity to work on productions and fashion events.