Air New Zealand reveals feature of its new uniform

Wednesday, 26 March 2025

Ta moko artist Te Rangitu Netana and designer Emilia Wickstead talk about the inspiration for the new look uniforms.

Air New Zealand has revealed that its new uniforms will feature a print incorporating tā moko, Māori tattoo.

Internationally acclaimed artist Te Rangitu Netana (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Wai and Te Arawa) and tā moko practitioner has collaborated with designer Emilia Wickstead on her print design for Air New Zealand’s new uniform.

Netana, whose work as a tā moko artist has spanned 35 years, is widely recognised for his mastery of Māori tattoo art. Originally from Kaikohe, Netana relocated to the UK in 2015, sharing his craft and Māori culture with the world.

Each print on the uniform has been hand-drawn by Netana and tells a story of the indigenous heritage, history and culture of Aotearoa and reflects Air New Zealand’s values.

Designer Emilia Wickstead and ta moko artist Te Rangitu Netana.

Air New Zealand chief executive Greg Foran said the airline was proud to partner with someone of Netana’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.

“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. We can’t wait to reveal the new uniform to the world in just a few short weeks.”

Although he couldn’t share too much about the design, Netana said there were many references to New Zealand within the print design.

“…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.”

Wickstead said she first met Netana five years ago.

“Bringing him into this project was deeply important to me. His artistry and profound connection to te ao Māori have enriched every design element with cultural richness and storytelling. 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.”

The new Air New Zealand uniform will be unveiled on April 11, 2025.