Air New Zealand has proudly unveiled its new uniform, a collection that embodies the airline’s profound sense of pride in Aotearoa and strong cultural heritage.
Designed by the world-renowned Emilia Wickstead, with bespoke hand painted prints from ta moko artist Te Rangitu Netana, the uniform marks the beginning of a new era for Air New Zealand. Worn by 6,000 Air New Zealanders around the world, the uniforms have always been a core part of Air New Zealand’s identity.
Key pieces in the collection, such as ‘The Fine Print – Dress’, showcase Wickstead’s mastery to her craft, featuring the intricate and meaningful kowhai print. ‘The Collective Thread – Shirt’ features striking purapura whetu patterns, designed to be worn by any cabin crew or ground staff member, highlighting the versatility of the collection.
The Ie Faitaga to be trialled by Pasifika team members supports the airline’s commitment to inclusivity. New designs for pilots include a bold pinstriped suit, with a Kiwi feather lining, symbolising leadership and prestige.
Air New Zealand chief executive, Greg Foran, said this uniform represents the best of Air New Zealand and New Zealand.
“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,” Foran said. “As an airline, we are all about being bold, celebrating what makes us unique, and celebrating our team members. This new uniform encapsulates everything we stand for – a combination of innovation, rich cultural heritage, and a sense of pride and belonging.”
Designer Emilia Wickstead said the Air New Zealand uniform was a passion project and one that she has always dreamed of working on.
“Designing the Air New Zealand uniform has been an incredibly personal project for me,” Emilia Wickstead added. “At the heart of it was a deep respect for the heritage and the unique identity of New Zealand’s people and land. It was essential to me that this uniform tells a meaningful story about Aotearoa. 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.”
As part of this collaboration, Te Rangitu Netana’s meticulously hand-drawn prints bring powerful narratives to life, reflecting Aotearoa, Air New Zealand, and its people through storytelling woven into Emilia Wickstead’s design vision.
“Each print is a story, deeply rooted in the traditions and values of Aotearoa,” Te Rangitu Netana said. “The patterns on this uniform are a reflection of the land, the sea, and the connections that bind us all as Kiwi. As a Maori artist on the world stage, I feel a deep responsibility in ensuring our culture is represented in a way that is authentic and meaningful. I’m proud that these designs have found a place in Air New Zealand’s uniform, bringing te ao Maori to designs that show up all over the world.”
A look at the collection
The Air New Zealand uniform collection features a bold and uplifting mix of vibrant colours, creative prints, and elevated tailoring. Key pieces include:
- The Fine Print – Dress: High-end craftsmanship, including the tui knot neckline, featuring the iconic kōwhai print, inspired by Maori heritage and the story of Ngatoro-i-Rangi, symbolising protection, responsibility, and belonging.
- The Collective Thread – Shirt: A versatile, inclusive design with bold prints and a tui knot neckline, designed to be worn by any crew or ground staff member.
- The Wrap Around – Trench: A sleek and stylish trench coat created in the suiting violet pinstripe to ensure a cohesive look, offering both craftsmanship and comfort.
- The Woven One – Ie Faitaga: A cultural garment to be trialled by Pacific people celebrating the rich heritage of the Pacific community.
- The Runway Cut – Waistcoat: A new waistcoat for male crew members and ground staff cloaking the wearer in mana and authority.
Dressing for the future
Air New Zealand is excited to share this new uniform with the world, beginning with the uniform reveal ahead of onboard wearer trial, commencing in May 2025.
Following a period of testing and feedback from uniform wearers across the airline, the new uniform will be rolled out across Air New Zealand’s network, with it rolling out across the workforce and team members proudly wearing it from 2026.
