Our Story

Hawes & Freer was established by Bill Hawes in 1922. It wasn’t until his nephew Dennis Freer joined him in 1946 that the Hawes & Freer brand was formed. In 1985 it was sold to current owners Trevor and Merran Hookway.

Coming up to 100 years old, the focus has been on the wholesale division for New Zealand designers and selling to fashion students and keen home sewers. We have made our ranges of trimmings and fabrics available on a low minimum basis to all customers.

The Hawes & Freer brand prides itself on offering an experience full of integrity and expertise. We have a small strong team that is able to help with any queries, whether that is to support you and the growth of your clothing brand or give advice and direction when creating a garment.

Take a look through our online store to see what H&F has to offer. Or if you are a brand that is looking for special and unique fabrics or textile accessories, please get in touch, as we believe we can help you on your fashion journey.

'An experience full of integrity and expertise.'

Testimonials

As a Production Manager, I have dealt with Hawes & Freer for nearly 20 years. The Sales Team all know what customer service is, and always go out of their way to deliver whatever they have promised, in a timely manner. Their prices are very competitive on all products, and they offer a huge variety of varied trims, linings, buttons, and extras, like sewing tools and cut length luxury cloth. They can customize product to suit all your needs, even down to printing your own design on silk base cloths, or branded buttons. We purchase a large majority of items from Hawes & Freer, mostly because they deliver superior product, when I need it, and I can always get extra stock, as they always carry good stock quantities.
Jill Brogan-Lees - Former Production Manager at Zambesi

We first approached Hawes and Freer looking for a new zip supplier many years ago. Since then our business has grown from zips to buttons to fusing and fabric and everything in between. Trevor, Jane, Jan and all the team offer the most efficient customer service in the business and their products are fantastic. Quality is key in both product and service, we couldn’t ask for more!

Kerri Lelievre - Operations Manager at Sabatini

You guys are amazing, you provide great service and if there is a problem you always are so prompt at correcting and fixing it.

Jenny-Lea Gomes of Jenny-Lea Designs

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