Balclutha hairdresser Jennie Hasler-Jacobs was "surprised, relieved and honoured" to be selected as a finalist in the international competition's open section.
Her garment "Avante Garden" was made of synthetic hair.
Mrs Hasler-Jacobs is a first-time entrant but has been a fan of the show for years.
"I've wanted to do this ever since I saw it on television as a teenager. There is a really high standard, so I went into it with an open mind expecting to be turned down ... ," she said.
Her husband and three children will accompany her to the late-September show in Wellington.
The other Otago finalists are Grace Ockwell and Jenny Bain, both of Dunedin, Carolyn Laing, of Clyde, and Andi Regan, of Wanaka.
In total, 164 garments gained finalist selection, from 327 entries. A second judging next month determines category and award winners.
Winners will be confirmed at a dress rehearsal on September 26 and announced at the awards on September 28.
