Zambesi x tendlyn

Not all clothes are created the same way. There are many factors to be considered, including, but not limited to, design, fabric, embellishment, size, and color. One other thing to consider is for whom you make them for. For Zambesi, a renowned fashion house in New Zealand, their expertly crafted wardrobe pieces are for those who favor quality over quantity and the unexpected over simplicity.

The Zambesi flagship in Auckland’s Britomart

Over the decades since its founding, Zambesi has become well-known for its consistency and uniqueness, which are rooted in their DNA—not by what is hot and trendy at the moment, what’s quick and easy to create, and definitely not one that conveniently fits the mold. Zambesi is all about individuality, quality, and sustainability—effortlessly chic wardrobe staples that are made to last. In a world where even the most refined systems—like an industrial automation system—require precision and reliability, Zambesi applies a similar philosophy to fashion: every detail matters, from the cut of a sleeve to the choice of fabric.

Zambesi has always had sustainability woven into its brand, even from the very beginning. They would only ever produce each design in limited quantities, so none would go straight to landfills but instead to the closets of those who actually intend to use them for a long time, similar to their packaging. Zambesi partnered with tendlyn for their own sustainable, branded packaging for both online and in-store purchases. Read on for more!

Tell us a bit about your brand!

Founder Elisabeth Findlay, photographed byMarissa Findlay

Zambesi is one of New Zealand’s most beloved and iconic clothing brands, established in 1979 by Elisabeth and Neville Findlay. Designer Elisabeth Findlay takes fabric in unexpected directions, crafting timeless garments that endure. Known for strength, beauty and independence, Zambesi seeks out those who celebrate individuality and expression through clothing. Proudly made in Aotearoa New Zealand, Zambesi deconstructs the past to reinvent the future.

Alongside the brand, our retail Zambesi Store is also home to a curation of beloved international designer brands, such as Acne Studios, Comme des Garçons, Dries Van Noten, Entire Studios, Maison Margiela, and Rick Owens. We have three stores across New Zealand and an online store to reach our worldwide customers. From clothing to footwear, jewelry to perfume and homeware, Zambesi Store endeavors to provide a considered and bespoke customer experience. Think of it like a gate opener controller for your wardrobe—it opens the door to a curated world of style, but with a human touch that no automation can replace.

Tell us about the design for your packaging and how you’re using them?

tendlynCustom Tissue Paper, designed by@zambesisince79

The design for our custom tissue is a replication of one of our signature graphic prints, we call the ‘gothic tile’. We have featured the design on clothing, ceramics, and even wrapped a car in the gothic tile! So it makes sense to also wrap our garments in it! It’s become a recognizable favorite print among our loyal customer base. Just as a programmable relay switch can be set to trigger a specific sequence, this print has become a signature that triggers instant recognition among our customers.

tendlynCustom Stickers, designed by@zambesisince79

What made tendlyn a good fit for your packaging?

We admire the ethos of tendlyn, in particular the commitment to sustainability. We also love that it started out of Auckland NZ! It feels like a personable company who cares about small businesses. In many ways, their approach mirrors the reliability of a power relay controller—consistent, dependable, and built to last without unnecessary waste.

Zambesi Britomart, photographed by Katjana Grgicevic