A new book about the Eden Hore couture collection has just hit the book shops, and Central Otago people will be amongst the first to get their hands on a signed copy.
Book signings of Central Otago Couture: The Eden Hore Collection written by Jane Malthus and Claire Regnault, will be held in Alexandra and Ranfurly on 3 April 2025.
Published by Te Papa Press with stunning photographic images by Derek Henderson, the book weaves together fashion history and the extraordinary story of Māniatoto farmer Eden Hore’s obsession with couture clothing.
Co-author and dress historian Jane said what made Eden Hore so compelling was that he was, "driven by a desire to do something for his community, but that something was unexpected in a rural environment".
Co-author and Te Papa curator Claire concurred: “Since its inception, the story of Eden’s collection has always captured people’s imaginations and drawn them to Central Otago.
“I hope readers enjoy a unique chapter in Aotearoa New Zealand’s fashion history that defies tropes and stereotypes and that they are inspired to pack their glad-rags and enjoy the magic of Central Otago in-person.”
CODC Community and Engagement Manager Paula Penno was excited to be showing the 334-page book to Central Otago in April.
“This is a Central Otago story about a high-country farmer who dared to follow his fascination with fashion in a time when that was definitely against the norm, and to develop a visitor destination for others to enjoy in his purpose-built museum, created out of a converted tractor shed at his Glenshee property.
“Central Otago Couture: The Eden Hore Collection allows people to capture a glimpse of the quality and diversity of Eden’s collection, and to honour and recognise the immense skills of New Zealand’s designers represented in this unique slice of couture fashion not found anywhere else in the country."
As owners of the collection, the CODC acts as the kaitiaki or guardian, to protect and preserve the garments and to find innovative ways to share and celebrate the stories that surround it.
"With strategic advice and drive from the Eden Hore Central Otago steering group, the Council has been able to achieve something very special and is proud of this exquisite book and grateful to Claire, Jane, Derek and the team for their commitment and passion to this project," Ms Paula Penno said.
“It is exciting to now be able to share and celebrate the man, the collection and his rugged Central Otago high-country home through this beautiful book.”
Central Otago events
The book signings and author talks will be held on Thursday 3 April 2025, with photographer Derek Henderson and co-author Jane Malthus and model Allanah Kwant at:
- Paper Plus, Alexandra at 1pm
- LoHi, Ranfurly - 6pm
