September 17th, 2024

Air New Zealand seeks new designer for sustainable uniforms

EOI is open to all New Zealand designers and closes on Sunday 14 May. Selected designers will then be invited to participate in a competitive pitch process.

The designer will be announced later this year, and the new designs are expected to be runway ready and rolled out in 2025.
The designer will be announced later this year, and the new designs are expected to be runway ready and rolled out in 2025.

Air New Zealand has officially opened expressions of interest (EOI) for Kiwi designers to create new uniforms for its pilots, flight attendants, and ground staff. The airline aims to focus on sustainability, functionality, safety, and comfort, with the new designs expected to be unveiled later this year and rolled out in 2025.

Leanne Geraghty, Air New Zealand's Chief Customer and Sales Officer, spoke about the decision to update the uniforms, saying, "After 12 years with our current designs, it's time to revisit and refresh our uniforms to ensure they continue to be a perfect fit for our people and align with our recently announced future cabin experience."

She acknowledged the significance of the uniform as a visual representation of the airline and New Zealand on the world stage, adding, "It's important that we continue to ensure our uniform accurately reflects our business, our people, and our country."

The current uniform design by Dame Trelise Cooper has been a staple for Air New Zealand for over a decade. Geraghty expressed gratitude for Cooper's contribution, stating, "Dame Trelise Cooper's iconic and much-loved design has served us well, and after an incredible tenure, it's time to pass the baton."

Air New Zealand's Chief Sustainability Officer, Kiri Hannifin, emphasised the opportunity this update presents in terms of sustainability.

"Part of our commitment to sustainability is supporting a circular economy. An integral element of the brief is that the fabrics we use have reduced life cycle impacts. Integrating new innovations, particularly around textile recycling, is key," she said.

Hannifin also mentioned that the airline is researching end-of-life solutions for the existing uniform to minimise waste as much as possible. In addition to these sustainable considerations, Air New Zealand will be revising its grooming standards as part of the update.

The EOI is open to all New Zealand designers and will close on Sunday 14 May. Following the closure, Air New Zealand will invite selected designers to participate in a competitive pitch process. The airline aims to have the new uniforms ready for its staff by 2025.