Tonic Communications returns as PR Partner for Auckland Design Week 2026

As part of an ongoing and successful push to celebrate New Zealand’s designers on both a global and national stage, Auckland Design Week (ADW) has reappointed Tonic Communications as its official PR partner.

The integrated communications agency will once again lead local and international media engagement for ADW 2026, helping to showcase the depth, quality and originality of Aotearoa New Zealand’s design talent.  It follows a successful collaboration on the 2025 event, which saw both an increase in the number of global visitors to the event, and national interest in NZ’s thriving design community.

Tonic will lead earned media and strategic media integrations across both domestic and international channels, positioning ADW as a leading platform for cultural exchange, creative tourism and design industry momentum.

“We’re proud to continue our partnership with ADW,” says Georgia Coleman, General Manager of Tonic Communications. “This event really shines a light on the incredible design thinking and talent we have in Aotearoa. As a team, we’re passionate about bringing creative ideas to life through storytelling and media in New Zealand, Australia and beyond, especially when they challenge convention, spark conversation, and celebrate local voices. It’s been exciting to see this event go from strength to strength, and we’re looking forward to helping shape what’s set to be the biggest and best year yet in 2026.”

Now in its third year, ADW will return in March 2026 with the curatorial theme ‘People + Place’; an exploration of how design connects us to each other and to the unique environments and communities of Aotearoa. The week-long programme of exhibitions, talks, installations and brand activations will span Tāmaki Makaurau, celebrating the creative forces shaping the New Zealand design story.

ADW 2025 attracted thousands of attendees from both New Zealand and overseas, featured more than 65 speakers, and brought together over 60 brand partners. Feedback from across the design community – from industry professionals to design enthusiasts – was resoundingly positive, further fuelling founder Jen Jones’ passion to grow the event and elevate its presence on the world stage.

Says Jones: “Auckland Design Week continues to show just how much talent and creativity exists in Aotearoa. Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, we’re focused on building a platform that celebrates our designers on both a national and international stage. Last year’s collaboration with Georgia and the Tonic team was fantastic, and we’re excited to continue working with them as we take the event to the next level. They are strategic, passionate and deeply aligned with our kaupapa and I’m thrilled to have them back on board for another year.”

Pictured (L-R): Georgia Coleman and Jen Jones