Fashion weeks are a right of passage for any model. Behind the facade of bright lights and heavenly clothes are the teams working backstage in a tizzy to create the perfect runway moment. Early call times, hours in the makeup chair and quick changes between walks, models are the true unsung heroes of any fashion week, worldwide. It takes grit, determination and a true love of the sport. So, when RUSSH headed to New Zealand for New Zealand Fashion Week 2023 earlier this month, we thought it was high time we caught up with the models making waves across the pond. Here, we got to know them a little better, off the runway. Here are 10 New Zealand models to watch we can't stop thinking about.

Anysha May, 19

@anyshareeswebbe, Super MGMT

If you were to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?

Creative.

How was NZFW 2023 for you?

A blast! It was quite busy and fast paced on some days but it was such a cool and valuable thing to experience.

What was your favourite show to walk?

I still can't decide between two shows. Zambesi because the location was epic or Campbell Luke as it was a beautiful and forever memorable show to be part of.

How did you find the energy backstage?

Backstage was always exciting and thrilling. After a few weeks of castings and fittings I think all the models were excited to finally walk the runway!

What is your go to snack to keep energised during FW?

Lollies. Easiest snack to fit in your bag and eat when constantly on the go.

Leonie Beyer, 17

@leoniebeyer_ , 62 Management

If you were to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?

Candid.

How was NZFW 2023 for you?

The synergy within NZFW inner workings and the collaborative efforts of the creative talents resulted in a week that is never to be forgotten.

What was your favourite show to walk?

Kate Sylvester was my debut show, it was an honour to be a part of the celebration marking her 30th anniversary.

How did you find the energy backstage?

The dim blue lights coupled with the heightened adrenaline added an extra layer of excitement to the experience.

What is your go to snack to keep energised during FW?

Date bars were stashed away in my purse for a convenient energy recharge!

David Miller, 23

@davidmiller27_ , 62 Management

If you were to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?

Enthusiastic.

How was NZFW 2023 for you?

NZFW 2023 was an incredible experience for me, it was my debut fashion week in NZ and it exceeded my expectations. I really enjoyed seeing dynamic designs from all the designers and how they incorporated them into standout shows.

What was your favourite show to walk?

My favourite show that I was apart of is a difficult one to choose from, because all 4 shows I did were so much fun and I loved being a part of every one. There was one that stood out for me, and that was being a part of the Zambesi show! The people, designs and showcasing of the event was incredible!

How did you find the energy backstage?

Amazing, everyone from hair and makeup to the teams that helped us get ready for the shows and the backstage crew were all full of energy and just lovely to speak to! I had so many laughs and great conversations with so many different people which paved the way for a great energy and vibe backstage.

What is your go to snack to keep energised during FW?

My go to snack has got to be bananas and nuts, but we can’t forget about coffee, it's just good for the soul! Staying hydrated with good amounts of water also helps a lot!

Katie Hughes, 19

@katie.hughes3, Super MGMT

If you were to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?

Driven.

How was NZFW 2023 for you?

NZFW was really fun! It was my first New Zealand fashion week since it had been cancelled the last couple years due to COVID and I really enjoyed it! Excited for next year.

What was your favourite show to walk?

Miromoda.

How did you find the energy backstage?

The energy was really positive, everyone was really friendly and I got to meet a lot of other NZ models which was cool.

What is your go to snack to keep energised during FW?

Salt and vinegar chips.

Mia Scantlebury, 19

@mia_scantlebury, 62 Management

If you were to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?

Caring.

How was NZFW 2023 for you?

So much fun! It was so nice to finally have a fashion week at home and walk for the designers that I grew up around and admire. It’s also a lot of fun to be surrounded by everyone in the fashion industry in NZ that I’ve worked with over the years.

What was your favourite show to walk?

I loved all my shows and really couldn’t choose! But setting wise I loved the Zambesi show, as it was by the harbour at golden hour, on a really nice day. The sun was reflecting on the silver tape they put on the ground and the ambience overall was really beautiful.

How did you find the energy backstage?

There is always a great energy and excitement backstage leading up to the shows, which I really enjoy. But I love talking to the other models, makeup artists and other people backstage and find this gets me in the mood and keeps the energy levels up.

What is your go to snack to keep energised during FW?

I would have to say a good nut mix, or a protein bar gives me that extra boost. But if I’m running between shows or have any early call time, I normally pack something extra for lunch or dinner to have on the go.

Sam Presland, 18

@samuel.presland, 62 Management

If you were to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?

Excited!

How was NZFW 2023 for you?

I loved NZFW 2023. The variety of streetwear and personalities I saw made it hard to hide my merriment. I met so many new people who were all so lovely and warm. I walked in two shows, which I enjoyed every second of. The only wish I could have was to have done more because my fomo was killing me watching all the unorthodox and fabulous designs displayed over the week. The overall liveliness and atmosphere surrounding the viaduct was a privilege to be a part of, and I will never forget it. Definitely one of my main highlights of 2023 so far.

What was your favourite show to walk?

I was lucky enough to have walked in two shows, Rory William Docherty and the illustrious Zambesi. My favourite was Zambesi; the exuberance behind the scenes in preparation for the show made me grin stupidly, and I LOVED my outfit for the walk. It was so good it seemed hard to believe I was being paid to be there. All the models looked great!

How did you find the energy backstage?

The energy backstage was something I'd never been a part of, and it was a great new experience. The makeup artists and hair stylists were all very patient and skilled, and I never felt judged or out of place at any point. Conversing with fellow models (some of whom I knew and others I didn't) was so much fun, and it quickly became a crowd I valued being a part of. There are so many new and flashy faces to remember and plenty to look forward to in the future. It was great to have some insight into other model's lives and how the more veteran models act in the limelight.

What is your go to snack to keep energised during FW?

My favourite snack to keep me energised was, for sure, scroggin. I prefer a mix of dried banana chips, dark chocolate drops, dried apricot pieces, almonds, coconut shavings, and peanuts.

Thomas Oh, 22

@ohmymas, 62 Management

If you were to describe yourself in one word, what would it be?

Dynamic.

How was NZFW 2023 for you?

Exciting to meet new people, such as models, designers, and a learning experience as it was my first fashion week. Would be more than pleased to do it all over again. Great opportunities and great vibe.

What was your favourite show to walk?

I walked in three shows, Next Gen, Zambesi and Hokonui Fashion Awards. I cannot decide which was the favourite show to walk in but I think learning is the best experience therefore Zambesi was my favourite. All the different designs were amazing and I wished I got the chance to walk better as I had to slow down due to the person in front going slower than expected, this resulted in not enough powerful walk. Great experience to learn from my mistakes and do better next time.

How did you find the energy backstage?

Loved it, I was tired for the Zambesi show as I had the Next Gen show in the morning but loved meeting new people as well as those I knew from the Stolen girlfriends show last year. Good chat and networking is always the best way to learn and create more opportunities.

What is your go to snack to keep energised during FW?

COFFEE, caffeine addiction is huge. Gets me going and keeps me active.

Isla Cutts, 15

@isalcutts, Super MGMT