27 March 2006

Air NZ's new uniform "uniquely NZ", but made in China

Air New Zealand's new uniform may have the stated aim of 'creating a more uniquely New Zealand brand that celebrates pride in our own country', but it will fall short of achieving this aim while it is manufactured offshore, according to Green MP Sue Bradford.

"I have been concerned to discover that although designed in New Zealand and made using New Zealand wool, the overwhelming majority of Air New Zealand's new uniforms are being made overseas," Ms Bradford says.

"This is particularly disappointing because a Christchurch clothing factory that used to produce uniforms for the airline has now lost the contract.

"The launch of the new Air New Zealand uniform would have been a great opportunity for Air New Zealand to cement its reputation as an iconic national company by ensuring that every aspect of its rebranding, including the manufacture, embraced the pride in New Zealand that it wishes to express.

"Unfortunately, outsourcing labour at the expense of New Zealand jobs seems to be becoming a trend for Air New Zealand, who are currently outsourcing aircraft maintenance offshore, and would have outsourced more of it but for union intervention.

"It seems that the national airline, far from celebrating 'pride in our own country', is simply seeking the cheapest bidder for the procurement of their goods and services.

"It is my hope that Air NZ and other iconic New Zealand companies will not make similarly disappointing decisions in future," Ms Bradford says.

ENDS

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