Local Great: Kate MacKenzie

Kate MacKenzie has been named a Local Great, receiving her accolade during Saturday night’s Edible Fashion Awards.

The Local Great award is part of Hastings District Council’s “Great Things Grow Here” initiative. It reinforces that great things grow here because great people live here.

“They’re outstanding people who are inspiring, creative, hard-working and passionate about what they do. Not only have they achieved recognition in Hawke’s Bay, but also nationally, or on the world stage. The Local Greats award celebrates success, by honouring a local person who exemplifies that great things grow here,” said deputy mayor Cynthia Bowers, who presented the award to Kate.

Kate, who was at the Edible Fashion Awards in her capacity as a judge, told the crowd that the support she received in Hastings had contributed to her success.

“I remember when I first decided to become an artist 15 years ago, Creative Hawke’s Bay arranged day courses  for people like me, so I could learn how to market myself and sell my work, and it was about then they started  the first Hawke’s Bays first Art Trail, which got me on my feet as an artist.”

She said the Local Great award was “a real honour”.

One of the pinnacles of her success to date was winning the top prize at New Zealand’s internationally-famous World of Wearable Arts Awards last year.

Her creation, Poly Nation, was made from old leather and cardboard suitcases, and was inspired by travel, culture and belief.

Kate said she was “really impressed” by the standard of entries in this year’s Edible Fashion Awards.

“I’m glad you are taking advantage of an amazing event which will help you realise your true potential.”

The Edible Fashion Awards, in their 11th year, are sponsored by Hastings District Council. This year’s theme was Legends of the Silver Screen.

4 October 2017

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