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New NZ Olympics Uniforms Will Be Manufactured Overseas
New Zealand's new Olympic and Commonwealth Games uniforms will likely be made overseas.
An apparel partnership between Kiwi-brand Kathmandu and the New Zealand Olympic Committee was announced in Christchurch this morning.
The deal covered the kits athletes wore during training, in the village and at ceremonial events, but not those worn in competition.
The first Kathmandu-designed kit would be worn by athletes at the 2026 Winter Olympics and also on display at the Commonwealth, Youth and Summer Olympics which followed.
It marked the end of a long-term association between the New Zealand Olympic Committee and Chinese manufacturer Peak.
Much was made at the launch event of the fact the kit would be designed in New Zealand.
But Kathmandu chief executive Megan Welch conceded it was unlikely it would be made here.
"We partner with some of the best factory partners around the world. As a registered B-Corp we have top factories across the world. We produce mostly in Asia but everything is sourced, developed, adapted here right here in New Zealand. But not New Zealand made."
Welch said producing the Olympic kits in New Zealand had not been discussed at present.
New Zealand Olympic Committee chief executive Nicki Nicol said she was confident Kathmandu would deliver for athletes.
"We're extremely proud to announce this partnership. Both organisations are deeply committed to performance, quality, innovation, and share deep roots in Aotearoa New Zealand. From this land, we've grown, forged new paths, and made an impact on the world stage. This is a partnership that honours New Zealand's heritage and future potential.
"Kathmandu's commitment to sustainability aligns with the values of the New Zealand Team and the Olympic Charter. New Zealanders care deeply about where their products come from and how they're made - we now have a leader in sustainable product innovation backing our team."
The team was excited to see what Kathmandu designed.
Two-time Olympic bronze medallist Tom Walsh said he hoped the uniform would reflect the proud Kiwis who wore them and remind them of the country they represent.
"Maybe when things are a bit tough we can check in and look at our uniform and go 'I'm really proud to be from New Zealand, this kit reminds me a bit of home'," he said.
Work had already begun on the kits, though they would not be revealed until later.
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