TONGA’S Olympic flag-bearer is back from Brazil and his first big move will be modelling in a fashion show in Auckland tonight.
Pita Taufatofua will be among those showcasing Pasifika and Maori designer wear from around the country at the inaugural Pacific Fusion Fashion Show.
The 32-year-old —— Tonga’s first tae kwon do athlete at the Olympics —— became an online sensation after he showed up at the Rio opening ceremony wearing traditional Tongan wear and glistening in coconut oil.
Director of the show, Nora Swann, said they were excited to have Taufatofua, a part-time model, included in the show given his new-found international fame.
“We were right behind Pita in his lead up to Rio. We secured him as a model for our show before he broke the internet at the Olympics. It was exciting to see him represent Tonga on the international stage and all the attention he received couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy,” Swann said.
“He has been getting invitations from all over the world and we were concerned he might not be available for our show. But he assured us that he honours his commitments. We just feel privileged that he will be on our runway.”
The event will also include a competition, a showcase of designs created by students at the Sewtec Fashion Academy and a live interactive styling show offering guests ideas on how to mix and match outfits.
