Call us on 2514578498

Home » International Quilt Expo

International Quilt Expo

We are excited to be hosting the International Challenge for its final showing here in New Zealand on the 4th & 5th August in Palmerston North. Hosted at the historic Caccia Birch House this will be a stunning exhibition of the quilts from Japan, France, and New Zealand. In addition, we will be showcasing the work of quilters and textile artists from around New Zealand.

In Palmerston North at the Expo you will see:

  • International Challenge -90 quilters, 30 themes, 90 quilts. Quilters from 3 countries interpret the same themes in different ways – fascinating to see the results!
  • PINK  – the latest in the series of the Aotearoa Quilters 12 X 12 Colour Challenges. Up to 100 quilts in one colourway look stunning when hung together are represent the work of quilters from all around New Zealand – from novice to experienced. These mini-artworks will be on sale for $125 each with $100 going directly to the quilter. In association with the PINK challenge, we will be accepting donations towards the Pink Ribbon campaign supporting women with breast cancer. Sponsored by Tulis Textiles and Cottage Flair.
  • Art Deco – An Aotearoa Quilters members only challenge. Given the theme of Art Deco, participants must represent the theme within the given dimensions. A great variety of style, colour and technique. Sponsored by Mallee Textiles and Wright Fabrics
  • Aotearoa Quilters Touring Exhibition – selected quilts from the Symposium 2018 Exhibition available to tour. These quilts represent the work of many of New Zealand’s most talented quilters and textile artists. Sponsored by Aotearoa Quilters Inc.
  • Hoffman – the annual Hoffman Challenge provides a Hoffman fabric for participants to use to produce a quilt/textile artwork. Twenty of these are chosen to tour the country for exhibition.

Come along first thing on Saturday ( 10:30) for the announcement of the Pink and Art Deco prize winners – Judged by local quilter and judge – Dianne Southey  (Village Books and Crafts)


Over the weekend AQ committee members Liz McKenzie and Shirley Sparks will be available to give you a guided tour and floor talk sharing their perspectives and insights into the creative processes and works displayed as well as answering any queries you may have.

Sat – 11:00 am and 2.30pm  International Challenge [Meet Liz at the International challenge – Strang Room]

           11.30am and 2:00 pm Pink, Art Deco, Hoffman, AQ Touring [Meet Shirley at the Pink challenge in the Conservatory via the Nannestad Room]

 Sun – 1.30 pm International Challenge [Meet Liz at the International challenge]

             2:00 pm Pink, Art Deco, Hoffman, AQ Touring [Meet Shirley at the Pink challenge]


Introduction to traditional Tivaevae” sample classes will be available – you can sign up here.  ($25 including materials)


On Sunday afternoon we are planning a team competition. The Golden Thread Quiltathon sponsored by Tiffanies Treasures 4/5 teams of 3 or4 will be required to produce a cot size quilt within 90 minutes using the fabrics and materials provided. Come along and support a team – audience votes for the winners! This event will be MC’ed by Robynne Fellowes and will be great fun! More Details to follow

The completed quilts will be donated to Cosy Kiwi Kids .

If you have quilts that would keep a child warm this winter that you would be willing to donate to this worthwhile cause please bring them along over the weekend.


Merchants: We will be joined by Brother Fabric by Three,   Plume Art 

Tea and Coffee /hot soup will be available through the weekend at the venue.

Dinner is available @ 7pm on Saturday evening –  you are welcome to join us for $40- BYO Drink ( PS you do not have to attend the AGM to attend the dinner ;-))

We are looking forward to hearing quilter, blogger & artist Charlotte Scott as our Guest Speaker at the dinner.

Charlotte Scott


Aotearoa Quilters Members

The AGM is on Sat. 4th @ 5pm @ Caccia Birch House. Please RSVP here.

Nominations for new committee members are now open