AQ Bags

AQ BAGS
Bags with a difference. Handmade in NZ, combining style, quality and functionality. AQ bags have you covered for all occasions.

Bags with a difference, handmade in Wellington NZ, from unique, durable fabrics. A wide range of affordable bags, but without compromising on quality and style. Be it practical peg bags, swimming bags for the kids or a functional everyday handbag.

07/09/2026

I’m heading off to Naples in just two weeks! 🇮🇹 And its finally starting to feel real!

The last few weeks have disappeared in a blur of packing, sorting, selling things, catching up with people and saying lots of goodbyes. There’s still plenty to do, but I did manage to give the AQ Bags website a good sort out and have added lots of bags and cushions to the SALE page. (This photo shows just a few)

There are some really good bargains in there! The last few of many styles and once they’re gone, that’s it!

Ron is never far from the action and yes, he is coming to Naples too. Thanks to the amazing organising by .nz .
Love Ron? Follow his adventure on insta

30/08/2026

It’s pretty special to be part of this year’s Taste of WOW line up alongside some incredibly talented designers.
I’ll be joining Australian designer Bethany Caldwell for a Q&A with our host, sharing a bit about our WOW journeys and what goes on behind the scenes of creating wearable art.
I’m much more at home making things than being in front of an audience, so this is a little different for me, but after entering WOW since 2005, it felt like such a special opportunity to share something about my WOW.
Looking forward to it! 💛

03/08/2026

I've finally updated the AQ Bags website with all the stock I have left.

Quite a few styles have already sold out, and once something is gone, that's it. The sewing machines are packed away in the container, so I can't make any more.

There are still some great bargains on the SALE page, including a few at 50% off, so now's the time to have a look.

If you're in Wellington and would like to see anything in person before I head to Italy in September, you're very welcome to make an appointment. I've got everything at my home office and am happy for people to pop in.

Thank you so much to everyone who has supported AQ Bags over the years. It really does mean a lot. 💛

20/07/2026

It's been a whirlwind of boxes, lists and ticking off jobs lately... and then this happened.

I'm excited to be a finalist in this year's World of WearableArt Awards. of WearableArt (WOW)

I can't reveal anything about my garment just yet - that will have to wait until the show opens on 17 September, but I'm looking forward to being part of another incredible season of WOW.

One of the highlights for me is Designers' Day. I missed it last year, so I can't wait to catch up with fellow designers, soak up their amazing creativity and come away inspired. WOW always puts on such a fantastic day.

Roll on September!

16/07/2026

Well...what a few weeks it's been!

After weeks of sorting, packing, selling and ticking off jobs, Brett headed off to Italy on Friday. As I drove him to the airport I reckon we both let out about three huge sighs...just thinking, we actually did it! We certainly couldn't have done it without the help of family and friends, so a big thank you to everyone who lent a hand along the way. We really appreciated it.

I'm not off just yet. I'll be staying in Wellington until after WOW in September before joining Brett in Naples.

This week has been a little quieter and I have finally caught up on updating the AQ Bags website with all the remaining stock. Go check it out.

08/06/2026

The countdown is on ✂️ and sewing up a few fun giveaways for our Workshop Sale!
There’ll be discounted bags, (some at half price), workshop bargains and treasures to hunt through.
Check out the poster for all the details.
Please also share with friends and family.

02/06/2026

BIG CHANGES FOR AQ BAGS + LINTON SAILS

After many years in our Rongotai workshop, we’re about to begin a huge new adventure.

Brett has accepted a position with the Alinghi America’s Cup team and we’ll be relocating to Italy for the next three years.
It’s exciting, surreal, slightly terrifying and a massive opportunity for us.

Before we go, we’ll be holding one final workshop winter sale from 13 - 16 June.

This year’s sale will be bigger than ever and will include:
*AQ Bags stock, all discounted
*workshop treasures
*shelving & tools
*sailing & ski gear
*fabrics galore
*furniture
*WOW garments
*clothing and assorted finds

Over the next few weeks we’ll share more of the transition, the packing chaos, and eventually life in Naples.

A HUGE thank you for supporting our businesses over the years.

25/05/2026

We’ve updated the Dory Large Crossbody with a couple of small improvements.

It now has two zipped compartments instead of the original main zip and slip pocket, making it more secure and easier to organise. We’ve also widened the strap for extra comfort when wearing it across the body.

It still sits flat and comfortably against you for everyday use.

Shown here in recycled sailcloth and a classic black and white designer fabric, plus a size comparison of the three Dory sizes.

More details on the AQ Bags website.

07/04/2026

It’s been a bit quiet on here… but the workshop has been anything but.
Between custom orders and working away on this year’s WOW garment, there’s been a whole lot happening behind the scenes.

Lately, it’s been all about bringing customer ideas to life
• a sailcloth laundry hamper
• a chalk bag for climbing adventures
• a beautiful, weathered sail about to become placemats
• Brill handbags made from recycled sails
• and duffle bags crafted from old Bay Boating Club banners

Every piece with its own past, reworked into something new.
And in the middle of it all… a few tools and materials hinting at what’s been quietly taking shape alongside it 👀

More soon.

16/02/2026

You’ve seen the teasers… and now it’s finally online!
Meet the Hoki Handbag. It's small enough to stay organised, big enough for real life. Wallet, phone, keys, snacks and even an A5 diary - all at a glance. Two zips, a front pocket, internal slip pocket, adjustable strap… compact, comfy, and already an AQ Bags favourite.

Plus our Recycled Sail Outdoor Cushions are live too - tough, practical and unmistakably nautical. Each one is unique, made from genuine recycled sails with their own marks, stitching, and history at sea. Personalise yours with numbers, letters, or sailing insignias in bold colours for a truly one of a kind touch ⚓

Shop both now via the link in bio.

Address

20 Kingsford Smith Street, Rongotai
Wellington
6022

Telephone

+64274946771

Website

http://www.aqbags.co.nz/

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