In a move that blends craftsmanship and cultural storytelling, Air New Zealand has unveiled its long-awaited new uniform collection, designed by internationally renowned fashion designer Emilia Wickstead, in collaboration with respected tā moko artist Te Rangitu Netana. The new threads replace the somewhat iconic vibrant threads from Dame Trelise Cooper that were instantly recognisable.
This launch marks the beginning of a new era for the airline, one where identity, inclusivity, and heritage come together through intricate details and considered silhouettes. It’s meant to not be just a uniform; it’s a statement of pride, and a reflection of Aotearoa’s spirit and landscape, which is why the reveal of the new collection has been proudly presented with New Zealand’s striking landscapes as a backdrop.
A Uniform with Purpose and Meaning
Worn by over 6,000 Air New Zealanders globally, the uniform is a continuation of the airline’s legacy of visually bold and culturally rooted branding – something that Air New Zealand has always punched well above its weight with. From the iconic pink of the Zambesi era to the current deep hues and Māori-inspired prints, Air New Zealand has never shied away from using uniform design as a brand statement.
The new collection, designed with both elegance and purpose, features handcrafted patterns and symbolic prints, each one telling a deeper story. We have to say, these uniforms are elegant and refined, and certainly are fashion-forward. Designer Emilia Wickstead called the project “incredibly personal,” and that connection shows in her thoughtful interpretation of New Zealand’s people and place.
Instead of just being about silhouette and form, the addition of using artist Te Rangitu Netana brings another layer of richness, with each outfit featuring bespoke patterns offering insight into te ao Māori – the Māori worldview. “Each print is a story, deeply rooted in the traditions and values of Aotearoa,” he explains.
Each of the outfits has a clearly unique brand proposition. The hero, the ‘Fine Print’ is an elegant, figure-hugging dress with its tūī knot neckline and kōwhai print, inspired by the legend of Ngatoro-i-Rangi, which speaks of protection, belonging, and responsibility.
This is also supported by a range of other outfits, including a unisex shirt dubbed ‘The Collected Thread’ designed to be worn across both cabin and ground teams, adorned with bold purapura whetū (star seed) motifs that symbolise collective strength. There’s also the Wrap Around, a clever purple pinstripe trench with crisp tailoring and all-weather practicality.
Continuing the support of the deep cultural roots that Aotearoa offers, there’s also le Faitaga – also known as ‘The Woven One’ which is a smart nod to Pasifika heritage, this garment will be trialled among Pacific team members in a celebration of cultural identity. However, one of our favourites is the Runaway Cut, a structured waistcoat for male team members, designed to reflect mana, authority and heritage.
Refined up-close details, but let’s take a step back
From a design perspective, the details are where this collection truly shines. The use of symbolic prints, hand-drawn motifs, and layered tailoring shows a clear intent to make the uniform an extension of storytelling. Each piece feels like a wearable canvas—especially when viewed up close.
However, that’s exactly where this collection may divide opinion. While it’s perfectly suited to in-cabin service, where passengers can admire the craftsmanship up close, the uniforms take on a more subdued identity from a distance.
In bustling airport terminals, for example, the deep, dark palette and absence of bright brand cues may make the crew less visually distinctive—especially when compared to more iconic, colour-forward uniforms like those of Singapore Airlines or Qantas. Air New Zealand appears to be making a deliberate choice here: shifting focus away from instant recognition and toward quiet confidence and layered storytelling.
It’s also worth noting the interesting juxtaposition between the new uniforms and Air New Zealand’s upcoming lighter, more calming cabin interiors. As the airline moves toward brighter tones and open, modern materials onboard, the dark plum and charcoal tones of the uniform stand in striking contrast. This might come as a surprise to some, especially as airlines often aim for harmony between uniform and cabin.
That said, the contrast does offer a unique tension – one that might actually help the crew stand out in the lighter cabin spaces, providing visual anchors among the softness of the new onboard palette.
Despite these minor critiques, there’s so much to applaud here. The collaboration between Wickstead and Netana sets a new benchmark for thoughtful, culturally rich airline uniform design. It’s not just about aesthetics – it’s about representation, pride, and identity. And in that respect, Air New Zealand has delivered something deeply meaningful.
With trials beginning in May 2025 and a full rollout expected in 2026, passengers will soon see this new collection in action. While not flashy or immediately iconic from afar, it embodies a quiet luxury and a strong cultural voice – exactly the kind of innovation and identity-driven design we’ve come to expect from Air New Zealand.
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