We challenged fast fashion addicts to find an op shop fit in 10 mins

This story is part of Re:’s Fashion, where we take a look at everything from fast fashion, cosmetic surgery, the prices of people's outfits to exploring what rural fashion says about New Zealand culture. Check out the rest of the stories here.

The fashion industry is one of the biggest polluters in the world - and like it or not a lot of us are part of the problem. 

To put it simply, we’re just buying way too many clothes and on top of that, far too much of it is ending up in landfill after very little use. 

In Aotearoa, over 220,000 tonnes of textiles end up in rubbish tip every year. That’s 44kg per person which is the equivalent of two full suitcases.

We all know the dire impacts this will have on the environment if nothing changes.

But positive signs are afoot (phew!). According to a study by global market research organisation, Future Market Insights, 2022 is estimated to see the fastest growth in second hand purchases as more people shift away from fast fashion. 

Re:’s reo Māori series, Ohinga, gave presenters Aniwa Whaiapu (Te Rarawa, Te Aupōuri, Waikato) and Kamaea Hakaraia (Ngā Puhi, Te Whānau-a-Apanui, Ngāti Hako, Maniapoto) a challenge to find the best op shop fit they can in 10 minutes. 

“You can get so many mean gems from op shops, low-key,” Aniwa says. 

“Looking like a million bucks for a dollar."

This is part of our reo Māori series, Ohinga, created by Mahi Tahi Media, with funding from Te Māngai Pāho and the NZ on Air Public Interest Journalism Fund.

More stories from Fashion and Beauty Week:

The challenges and joy Black women in NZ face when it comes to their hair

“I want to see the celebration and inclusion of black hair and its natural form."

3 gender diverse people share their favourite clothing items

"As soon as I put it on, I realised I am trans."

Welcome to Fashion Week

Here's what you need to know about our fashion and beauty coverage for this week.