The designer & artist behind Air New Zealand’s new uniforms

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The designer & artist behind Air New Zealand’s new uniforms

Air New Zealand has turned to a local designer and artist for its new uniforms.

Marking the airline’s 85th year of flying to Australia, they pay homage to the Maori culture of New Zealand (Aotearoa).

A spokesperson for the airline says: “The collection embodies the airline’s profound sense of pride in Aotearoa, and strong cultural heritage. The bold print, colour and exquisite design showcase the very best of Aotearoa to the world.”

Designed by globally famous Emilia Wickstead, the fabrics have bespoke handpainted prints from Ta Moko artist Te Rangitu Netana. It’s 14 years since there was a change of the uniforms worn by 6000 Air New Zealanders around the world.

The spokesperson says: “Our uniforms have always been a core part of Air New Zealand’s identity. They’re worn with immense pride.”

Camera IconEmilia Wickstead and Te Rangitu Netana. Credit: SuppliedEMILIA & TE RANGITU

For those who follow fashion, the collection is “recognisably Emilia”.

More than just uniforms, the collection embodies New Zealand-born Emilia Wickstead’s aesthetic of sophistication and playfulness.

And her work with Maori artist Te Rangitu Netana carries strong tradition. The Fine Print dress shows her craft, in using an intricate and meaningful print. The Collective Thread shirt is highly versatile. The Ie Faitaga being trialled by Pacific team members is a manifestation of a commitment to inclusivity.

New designs for pilots include a bold pinstriped suit with a Kiwi feather lining.

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Emilia says it has been a passion project — one she has dreamed of working on.

She explains: “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. 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 narratives to life.

His work blends traditional tattooing with storytelling — perfect for fabric prints.

Each print is hand-drawn by Te Rangitu, reflecting landscapes, wildlife and culture of Aotearoa.

He explains: “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.

“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.”

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+ Patterns based on the feathers of the huia — an extinct species of New Zealand wattlebird, which was endemic to the North Island and last seen in 1907.

+ Some feature purapura whetu — a Maori phrase for “star dust”, referring to a simple, cross-stitch pattern used in tukutuku (weaving) art.

+ It includes the introduction of the ie faitaga — a long, rectangular cloth wrapped around the waist as a skirt or kilt. This is a traditional, formal “lavalava”.

+ And there are Matariki constellation motifs. In Maori culture, Matariki is the Pleiades star cluster. The rising of this constellation in late June or early July marks the beginning of the Maori lunar calendar’s new year.

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+ The Fine Print A dress of high quality craftsmanship, with a tui knot neckline,

And iconic kowhai print, inspired by Maori heritage and the story of Ngatoro-i-Rangi, symbolising protection, responsibility and belonging. There’s the belief that Ngatoro-i-Rangi, who is honoured for his magical abilities and navigational skill, guided two tribes to the Taupo area in New Zealand.

+ The Collective Thread A versatile shirt, of inclusive design with bold prints and a tui knot neckline. It will be worn by any crew or ground staff member.

+ The Wrap Around A sleek trench coat created in “suit style” violet pinstripe. The makers are proud of both its craftsmanship and comfort.

+ The Woven One This is a cultural garment — an Ie Faitaga. It is worn like a kilt and will be trialled by Pacific people.

+ The Runway Cut This waistcoat is for male crew members and ground staff cloaking, with the designer trying to give the wearer an aura of authority.

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