Emilia Wickstead Designs New Uniforms for Air New Zealand Staff
April 12, 2025 in Fashion & Style by Charlotte Sinclair
Air New Zealand has revealed its new staff uniforms, created by internationally acclaimed designer Emilia Wickstead. The collection, which includes 125 unique pieces, blends elegant modern tailoring with powerful cultural symbolism.
According to the airline, the designs reflect a deep sense of pride in Aotearoa — the Māori name for New Zealand — and a strong commitment to honoring the heritage and identity of its people. Each garment carries visual elements inspired by traditional Māori art and nature.
One of the collection's most distinctive features is the use of feather-like motifs that echo the plumage of the native kākā parrot, a species deeply rooted in New Zealand’s ecosystem and culture. In addition, prints were created by Māori artist Te Rangitu Netana using the ta moko technique — a traditional tattooing style symbolizing genealogy, spirituality, and identity.
The color palette — dominated by deep purples, blacks, and silvers — evokes a sense of dignity, while the silhouettes remain practical and inclusive, reflecting the diversity of the airline’s workforce.
The new uniforms will be officially rolled out in 2026, replacing the current designs introduced more than a decade ago. This launch represents more than just a visual change — it is a narrative of connection, storytelling, and national pride, woven into every thread.
