#New Zealand #Auckland #Air New Zealand #Emilia Wickstead #Te Rangitu Netana

Air New Zealand Unveils a Bold New Uniform

Air New Zealand proudly presents its highly awaited new uniform collection, a vibrant tribute to Aotearoa's unique cultural tapestry and remarkable artistry, designed by the acclaimed fashion designer Emilia Wickstead. This striking new uniform not only represents the airline's deep-rooted identity but also aims to take the spirit of New Zealand to the skies.

A Colorful Representation of Aotearoa

This uniform collection, which will be donned by approximately 6,000 Air New Zealand staff globally, is a testament to the airline’s continuous commitment to celebrating its Maori heritage and national pride. The designs incorporate vibrant colors and contemporary prints that showcase the essence of Aotearoa, featuring elements that make New Zealand distinct on a global platform.

Wickstead, renowned for her intricate designs, has worked closely with Tā moko artist Te Rangitu Netana, who contributed hand-painted bespoke prints inspired by Aotearoa's cultural narratives. This collaboration highlights the importance of storytelling through fashion, promoting the rich heritage that Air New Zealand embodies.

One of the standout pieces in the collection is The Fine Print Dress, which showcases a delicate kōwhai flower print, symbolizing New Zealand’s natural beauty. Similarly, The Collective Thread Shirt displays striking purapura whetū patterns, designed for versatility to be worn by both cabin crew and ground staff seamlessly, reflecting the airline's inclusive vision.

Innovations in Design

The new designs extend beyond aesthetics. For Pasifika team members, the uniform includes the unique Ie Faitaga, showcasing the airline’s dedication to inclusivity. The pilots’ uniforms have also undergone a revival, presenting a bold pinstripe suit lined with kiwi feathers, symbolizing leadership and prestige, further asserting Air New Zealand’s position in the aviation industry.

Chief Executive Greg Foran expressed, “This new uniform is not just about attire; it is a celebration of our people, culture, and values. We are a company known for our boldness in representing our identity, and this uniform captures that essence perfectly.” Foran’s statement echoes a commitment to innovation while proudly wearing Aotearoa’s heritage.

Designer's Insight

Emilia Wickstead herself reflected on the design process, stating, “Creating this uniform has been deeply personal for me. I aimed to reflect the unique identity of New Zealand’s people and the land through every piece of clothing.” She emphasized her goal to design garments that empower wearers and evoke a sense of pride, remarking that good design should always feel significant and occasion-worthy.

Shows of authenticity and meaningful representation also come from Te Rangitu Netana, who noted, “Each print tells a story, reflecting our traditions and values as Māori. It is vital to ensure our culture is depicted authentically, and I am honored to see our designs represented globally in Air New Zealand’s uniforms.”

A Forward-Looking Approach

Air New Zealand is set to reveal this stellar new uniform beginning with a trial phase commencing May 2025. This period will allow feedback from daily wearers before the official rollout, scheduled for 2026, across all operations and team members. The airline is thus paving the way for a new era while cherishing the cultural narratives rooted in Aotearoa.

For those eager to see this beautiful collection firsthand, photos and videos of the uniform will be made available to the public, shining a light on the fantastic craftsmanship and thoughtfulness behind each piece. By weaving the rich stories, culture, and pride of Aotearoa into their uniforms, Air New Zealand continues to fly high, showcasing the best of its heritage to the world.

In this exciting phase, Air New Zealand sets a runway for the future while honoring its past, confirming its place as a familiar yet innovative presence in international aviation.