The uniform has been designed by Emilia Wickstead and features unique prints hand drawn by tā moko artist Te Rangitu Netana (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Wai and Te Arawa).
Highlights of the collection include ‘The Fine Print – Dress’, a piece which showcases Wickstead’s design mastery and features an intricate kōwhai print; and ‘The Collective Thread – Shirt’ features purapura whetū patterns, designed to be worn by any cabin crew or ground staff member.
As part of Air New Zealand’s inclusivity commitments, the Ie Faitaga is to be trialled by Pasifika team members. New designs for pilots include a bold pinstriped suit, with a kiwi feather print lining, symbolising leadership and prestige.
Air New Zealand Chief Executive Greg Foran says this uniform represents the best of Air New Zealand and Aotearoa.
“For us, this is more than just a uniform. It is a celebration of our people, our culture, and our values,” he says.
“Air New Zealand has never been about standing still or blending in. We have a tradition of being bold, showcasing what makes us unique, and celebrating our team members.
“Our new uniform encapsulates everything we stand for – a combination of innovation, rich cultural heritage, and a deep sense of pride and belonging.”
Designer Wickstead says 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. At the heart of it was a deep respect for the heritage and the unique identity of New Zealand’s people and land,” she says.
“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 Wickstead’s design vision.
“Each print is a story, deeply rooted in the traditions and values of Aotearoa,” says Netana.
“The patterns on this uniform are a reflection of the land, the sea, and the connections that bind us all as Kiwi.
“As a Māori 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 Māori to designs that show up all over the world.”
Netana, an internationally acclaimed artist and tā moko practitioner, is widely recognised for his mastery of Māori tattoo art.
Originally from Kaikohe in the far north of Aotearoa, Te Rangitu relocated to the UK, sharing his craft and Māori culture with the world.
With Wickstead also based in the UK, Te Rangitu and Emilia were well-acquainted with one another and held a profound mutual respect for each other’s artistry and craftsmanship.
Each of the uniform’s prints, meticulously hand-drawn by Te Rangitu, tells a story deeply rooted in the indigenous heritage, history and culture of Aotearoa.
Air New Zealand says the designs reflect the airline’s values, ensuring that every wearer of the uniform will feel inspired, proud and connected to Aotearoa, wherever they are in the world.
Foran says the airline is proud to partner with someone of Te Rangitu’s calibre to bring New Zealand’s unique heritage and culture to life.
“We are thrilled to partner with Te Rangitu on this new chapter of Air New Zealand’s identity. The partnership between Te Rangitu and Emilia Wickstead perfectly embodies our commitment to reflecting the beauty and heritage of Aotearoa,” he says.
“The design of this uniform is not only a celebration of our people and culture, but a symbol of empowerment for everyone who wears it.”
Netana says, “There are many references within the print design to our Taiao (environment), including our maunga (mountains), awa (rivers), ngai kīrehe, (fauna and ecology), and the narratives of our foundations.
“We wanted to combine style, class and elegance with the strength and subtlety of empowering details, reflecting a sense of pride, humility and innovation, as the combination of these qualities reserves New Zealand a unique place in the world.
“When all of the interrelated elements come together, I hope people can appreciate the subtle meanings. Nō reira, mihi nui te aroha ki ngā hapū, ngā iwi, ngā tāngata kātoa nō Aotearoa, hei manaaki ki roto i tātou kōtahitanga.”
Netana and Wickstead first met five years ago, and she says bringing him into this project was deeply important to her.
“His artistry and profound connection to te ao Māori have enriched every design element with cultural richness and storytelling,” she says.
“Together, we have crafted a narrative that celebrates heritage, craftsmanship and a shared sense of belonging — values that are deeply meaningful to both Air New Zealand and to my own design philosophy.
“This collaboration has been an inspiring and rewarding journey, reflecting the beauty, strength, and spirit of Aotearoa.”
