Giving Back Through Design: A Celebration of Connection, Craft & Community.

At LyZadie Design Studio, everything begins with connection, to nature, to craft, and to each other.

This year, our journey takes us deeper into that philosophy as we hold space for two exhibitions that honour the creative ecosystem surrounding us: Ngāhere: Where the Forest Whispers and Made in New Zealand: The Art of Craft & Design.

Both are rooted in a shared purpose, to give back, celebrate collaboration, and nurture the community of makers whose hands and hearts shape the vision of LyZadie Design Studio.

Ngāhere: Where the Forest Whispers

5 – 20 September 2025 | The Grey Place, Auckland

This September, we invited you to step into the forest, to listen, to feel, and to connect.

Ngāhere was more than an exhibition; it was a gathering of creative spirits who, through their craft, give voice to the natural world.

Within this forest of creativity, each maker brings a story, some are long-time collaborators, others are new voices weaving fresh threads into our collective tapestry. Together, they form a living ecosystem of design, art, and soul.

Throughout the month, we shared these stories in our Meet the Maker series, revealing the processes, philosophies, and passion behind each creation.

It was an intimate window into how beauty is born, not from perfection, but from purpose.

Thank you for coming and seeing the work. Meet the makers. Step into the ngahere, a world of positive luxury and conscious design.

Made in New Zealand: The Art of Craft & Design

21 October – 1 November 2025 | The Grey Place, Auckland

Following Ngāhere, we continue the celebration with the inaugural edition of Made in New Zealand: The Art of Craft & Design, an annual exhibition dedicated to honouring New Zealand’s furniture and wood makers.

This show shines a light on the artisans who transform native timbers and sustainable woods into timeless works of art. From finely crafted furniture to sculptural forms, each piece tells a story of patience, respect, and connection to Aotearoa’s land and culture.

At LyZadie Design Studio, we believe in giving back to the community that inspires us.

Holding space for Made in New Zealand is an act of gratitude, a way to support local craftsmanship, amplify creative voices, and ensure the next generation of makers thrives.

Each year, this exhibition will return, growing stronger and more diverse, a celebration of the artistry, integrity, and innovation that define design in Aotearoa.

Featured Makers:

@renejansensculpture · @bearwoodworkshop · @stuartbryan.woodworking · @made_by_saul · @ffinnzarby · @benjamingrantfurniture ·@bespokewoodcreations.nz

Design as a Living Ecosystem

For us, design is not an isolated act, it’s a living ecosystem built on trust, respect, and shared purpose.

Each collaboration, each material choice, and each exhibition reflects a deeper belief that creativity can heal, inspire, and unite.

When we create together, we give life to something larger than ourselves.

We give back to the land, to the people, and to the stories that define who we are.

So come walk with us this spring, through the forest, through the stories, through the heart of New Zealand design.

Made in New Zealand: The Art of Craft & Design — 21 October to 1 November 2025

The Grey Place, 37 Scanlan Street, Grey Lynn, Auckland