Air New Zealand Launches Culturally Inspired New Uniform
Air New Zealand has unveiled its new staff uniform, conceived as a celebration of the nation’s rich cultural identity and brought to life by fashion designer, Emilia Wickstead. The airline’s latest collection aims to embody a profound sense of pride in Aotearoa (New Zealand) while celebrating its strong cultural heritage.
On April 15, 2025, Air New Zealand revealed its new uniform, designed by internationally acclaimed fashion designer Emilia Wickstead. The collection features bespoke hand-painted prints by tā moko artist Te Rangitu Netana, providing a striking representation of New Zealand’s unique cultural landscape. Wickstead expressed her passion for the project, stating, “Designing the Air New Zealand uniform has been an incredibly personal project for me. At the heart of it was a deep respect for the heritage and the unique identity of New Zealand’s people and land.”
Key pieces in the collection include ‘The Fine Print – Dress’, showcasing an intricate kōwhai print, and ‘The Collective Thread – Shirt’ featuring purapura whetū patterns. These designs reflect the diverse cultural influences that shape New Zealand’s identity. Additionally, the collection introduces innovative pieces such as the Ie Faitaga (formal lavalava) for Pasifika team members, underscoring the airline’s commitment to inclusivity.
Te Rangitu Netana, the tā moko artist behind the uniform’s prints, shared insights about his work, stating, “Each print is a story, deeply rooted in the traditions and values of Aotearoa. The patterns on this uniform are a reflection of the land, the sea, and the connections that bind us all as Kiwi.” This sentiment resonates strongly with the ethos of Air New Zealand, which aims to foster a sense of belonging among its staff and passengers alike.
Notably, the pilots’ new design features a bold pinstriped suit adorned with a distinctive Kiwi feather lining, symbolizing leadership and national pride. Air New Zealand’s chief executive Greg Foran emphasized the significance of the new uniform, saying, “For us, this is more than just a uniform; it is a celebration of our people, our culture, and our values. Air New Zealand has never been about standing still or blending in.”
The new uniform collection has been met with enthusiasm, with many expressing excitement over its modern yet culturally respectful design. The integration of traditional patterns and contemporary fashion speaks to a broader trend in the aviation industry, where airlines are increasingly looking to showcase their cultural identities through staff attire.
Wickstead’s design philosophy centers around empowerment and pride, aiming to create uniforms that inspire those who wear them and those who see them. She elaborated, “I wanted to create a uniform that empowers individuals and inspires pride in all who wear it and see it. For me, good design should always evoke a sense of pride and occasion, and I believe this uniform will do just that.” This approach reflects a growing recognition of the importance of cultural representation in fashion, particularly in industries like aviation.
As Air New Zealand rolls out its new uniforms, the airline hopes to not only enhance the visual identity of its crew but also to deepen the connection between its staff and the communities they serve. The unveiling of the new collection is seen as a pivotal moment for the airline, marking a commitment to honoring New Zealand’s diverse cultural heritage while embracing modern design.
For more information on the uniform and design details, visit the Air New Zealand website. The airline’s dedication to celebrating Aotearoa’s culture through its uniforms is a testament to its ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity and pride among its employees and passengers.
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