Precinct has announced the arrival of Zambesi, one of New Zealand’s most iconic and influential fashion brands, to the ground floor of Commercial Bay.
Founded in 1979 by Elisabeth and Neville Findlay, Zambesi has been a cornerstone of New Zealand’s fashion identity for over four decades.
Opening later this year, the new Zambesi store will introduce a carefully curated retail environment that reflects the brand’s bold, timeless aesthetic, offering a full range of womenswear, menswear, accessories and exclusive pieces crafted in New Zealand.
Zambesi is celebrated for its dark, intellectual style, strong tailoring and architectural silhouettes that balance wearable design with experimental edge. Each collection begins with a fabric obsession, with garments designed to outlive trends and form part of a lasting, evolving wardrobe.
Elisabeth Findlay and her team remain committed to local production, with garments designed and proudly made in-house in Auckland. The new store at Commercial Bay will reinforce Zambesi’s long-standing values: quality craftsmanship, enduring style and a deep-rooted connection to its New Zealand heritage.
Andrew Trounson, Head of Retail at Commercial Bay, was honoured to welcome Zambesi to Commercial Bay.
“This is a brand that has helped shape the identity of New Zealand fashion and earned a reputation internationally for its uncompromising approach to design and craftsmanship,” said Trounson.
“Having Zambesi open a new store here strengthens our retail offering with a true leader in contemporary fashion.”
Zambesi’s arrival further elevates Commercial Bay’s position as the go-to destination for New Zealand fashion. The ground floor of the precinct is home to an impressive mix of the country’s most sought-after designer brands, such as Wynn Hamlyn, Juliette Hogan, Sylvester, Elle & Riley and more.
These retailers are a significant drawcard for both local and international customers, creating a uniquely curated and distinctly New Zealand shopping experience in the heart of the city. Zambesi’s presence builds on the brand’s remarkable fashion legacy.
The label has presented collections at nearly every New Zealand Fashion Week since 2001 (including showing at the very first New Zealand Fashion Week and also showing on site at this year’s New Zealand Fashion Week), opened the event in 2017 as recipient of the Mercedes-Benz Presents Designer Award and has represented New Zealand on international runways, including London and Australian Fashion Weeks.
“We are excited to join Commercial Bay and bring our universe to this vibrant part of the city. Our new space will reflect the essence of Zambesi: intelligent design, enduring style and garments that tell a story,” said Elisabeth Findlay, founder and designer of Zambesi.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming new and loyal customers into the space and continuing to be part of their lives.”
The Zambesi store will be located on the ground floor of Commercial Bay and is set to open in spring 2025.
