Air New Zealand staff are finally getting new uniforms

Air New Zealand is launching a search for a Kiwi designer to create new uniforms for its pilots, flight attendants and ground crew. Expressions of interest are now open for those who can come up with a fresh look, which will replace the current uniform designed by Dame Trelise Cooper and introduced in 2011. The process will be open to all New Zealand designers, who have until May 14 to register their interest. The airline will then select designers to be part of a competitive pitch process. Air New Zealand expects to roll out the new uniforms to its more than 5000 customer-facing staff in 2025. It will also be revising grooming standards as part of the update. Air New Zealand chief customer and sales officer Leanne Geraghty said the uniform was one of the airline’s most important brand assets, alongside the koru, and recognised around the world. “It’s often the first thing travellers coming to Aotearoa see... it’s the first visual representation of the country,” she said. But after 12 years with the current uniform, and following the airline’s announcements about new inflight offerings, it was time for a change to ensure the uniform “reflects the business, our people, and New Zealand as a country into the future”.<br/>