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. Olivia Palamountain reports

Air New Zealand has revealed its new uniform, a collection that embodies the airline’s profound sense of pride in Aotearoa (New Zealand), and celebrates strong cultural heritage.

Designed by internationally acclaimed fashion designer Emilia Wickstead and featuring bespoke hand-painted prints by tā moko artist Te Rangitu Netana, the new uniform collection aims to be a striking representation of New Zealand's unique cultural landscape.

Wickstead says: "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."  The uniform will be worn by 6,000 Air New Zealand staff worldwide, with a planned rollout beginning in May 2025 and full implementation across the airline's network in 2026.

Key pieces in the collection include 'The Fine Print – Dress', which showcases an intricate kōwhai print, and 'The Collective Thread – Shirt' featuring purapura whetū patterns. The design also introduces innovative pieces such as the Ie Faitaga (formal lavalava) for Pasifika team members, underlining the airline's commitment to inclusivity.
Te Rangitu Netana, the tā moko artist behind the uniform's prints, says: "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."

Notably, the pilots' new design features a bold pinstriped suit with a distinctive Kiwi feather lining, symbolising leadership and national pride.

"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," says Air New Zealand's chief executive Greg Foran.

For more information on the uniform and design details, visit the Air New Zealand website.