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By MiNDFOOD
- April 10, 2025
ThenewAirNewZealand uniform will be unveiled to the public on 11 April.
The uniform has been designed by Emilia Wickstead and features unique prints hand drawn by Te Rangitu Netana (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Wai and Te Arawa).
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 airlines values, ensuring that every wearer of the uniform will feel inspired, proud and connected to Aotearoa, wherever they are in the world.
AirNewZealandChief Executive Greg Foran says the airline is proud to partner with someone of Te Rangitu’s calibre to bringNewZealand’s unique heritage and culture to life.
“We are thrilled to partner with Te Rangitu on thisnewchapter ofAirNewZealand’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. We can’t wait to reveal thenewuniform to the world in just a few short weeks.”
Te Rangitu Netana says, “Although we can’t share too much yet, 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 NewZealanda 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 AirNewZealandand to my own design philosophy.
“This collaboration has been an inspiring and rewarding journey, reflecting the beauty, strength, and spirit of Aotearoa.”
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