Towards the end of the online registration form, you’ll have the opportunity to upload all necessary materials as a single zipped folder. This may include:

• Guardian Consent Form for entrants aged 16 or under.
• Character reference sheets
• Photo Progression Log (up to 10 pages): This is a collage documenting the construction process, highlighting details not visible on the finished costume. Feel free to include as many images as needed within the 10-page limit. You don’t need to provide a detailed build log covering every step.

Please ensure your character reference images include at least one high-quality image, with additional reference images consolidated onto a single sheet (rather than individual files).

Image files should be in JPEG, PNG, or PDF format. Judges will have access to your submission on judging day.

No, it does not. We understand that a significant amount of work can often be completed in the final week leading up to the event.

Once you submit your entry, you’ll receive an automatic email confirming receipt. Then, after the entry deadline, you’ll receive notification regarding the acceptance status.

We aim to provide feedback within 2 days after the entry submission deadline, but please understand that unforeseen circumstances may affect this timeline.

If your entry is accepted, you’ll receive an email detailing your judging time and the schedule for the competition day.

When choosing your character or costume, consider your ability to move. 

Although we’ll make every effort to accommodate you on stage, please help us help you by making your costumes easy to manoeuvre in.

Sandbox Fandom Fest is a family-friendly event, so your costume should reflect this. Ensure that all body paint is securely sealed, and consider using coloured tights or body suits where possible.

Costumes depicting excessive nudity or gore are not permitted. While fantasy military or military-inspired costumes are acceptable, avoid wearing official uniforms of current military, police, or medical professions.

If you’re uncertain, please reach out to the cosplay organisers for assistance at (contact email here).

*Access to the stage will be accommodated for individuals with disabilities or mobility needs.

We require all props to be constructed in a manner that ensures the safety of those around you.

• Real weapons are strictly prohibited. 
• Any props resembling firearms, including those with fantasy or futuristic designs, must feature orange safety tips (you can use orange tape on your completed prop). Realistic guns or firearms are not allowed. If you’re unsure whether your prop would be accepted, please email us for approval. Remember, safety always comes first.
• Metal bladed weapons are also not allowed. Blades should be crafted from foam, pine, MDF, plastic, balsa, or similar materials and should not exceed the weight that the bearer can safely carry.
• Projectile weapons of any kind are prohibited. While water pistols or Nerf guns can serve as a base, they must be permanently non-functioning. You must provide documented proof of how you have rendered the base non-functioning in your construction portfolio. Merely not loading projectiles is insufficient.
• All props, including stage props, must not exceed 2 meters in length or width or weigh more than 10 kilograms.

If you have any questions about the acceptability of your prop, please don’t hesitate to contact us. It’s better to inquire before creating the prop than to be informed on the day of the competition that it cannot be used.

Ultimately, the safety of all participants is our top priority.

Unfortunately, no. Our competitions focus on craftsmanship and construction, so only costumes that have been made by the contestant(s) are eligible for entry.

At least 75% of the costume should be handmade by the wearer. While we understand that crafting shoes or creating intricate wefts from scratch might not be feasible, we do expect that all components are either made or significantly altered by you.

Any costume that has won a prize in cosplay or costume competitions in New Zealand or Overseas is not eligible for entry.

However, if your costume has been entered into a competition before but did not win a prize (including placing, judges’ choice, special mentions, etc.), you are welcome to enter it in the Sandbox Cosplay Competition.

Please indicate on the entry form if the costume you’re submitting to Sandbox has been entered into other competitions, and detail any alterations or additions you’ve made. Whether it’s through revisions, added trim, embroidery, or other enhancements, strive to make it the best costume possible and submit it!