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Source: ONE News -
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Air New Zealand has hit back at criticism the proposed design for its new cabin crew uniform is culturally insensitive.
The pink uniform's koru pattern is under fire from a Maori academic, who says the traditional motifs should either be used alone or in an ordered pattern.
Canterbury University's head of Maori and Indigenous studies, Rawiri Taonui, says it is clear the uniform has been designed by someone who does not understand the symbolism of the motifs they have used.
The airline's marketing manager Steve Bayliss says as the national carrier, Air New Zealand takes its responsibilities seriously in regards to the use of Maori designs.
He says they are closely involved with a number of key Maori agencies and when it comes to the final design, they will be consulting with those partners to make sure the uniforms are culturally appropriate.
Bayliss says New Zealanders should reserve their judgement until they see the final design in mid-2011.
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Post new commentcuba said on 2010-02-01 @ 20:16 NZDT: Report abusive post
Can I suggest that perhaps most of us don't decide which airline we are going to fly simply because we like the colour or style of uniform they wear? Pink is only one colour in this palette but quite frankly, who cares? As long as they get me where I am going quickly, cost effectively and treat me well then they can wear polka dots and feathers. Air NZ are about people not colour. Why do we waste so much energy on this when there are bigger things going on in the world...
nichols said on 2010-02-01 @ 15:27 NZDT: Report abusive post
I don't know about culturaly offensive but the uniforms are offensive in just about every other way. I can't actually see any maori stuff on them just something that looks like a cross between vomit and a bad car smash.
mousework said on 2010-01-29 @ 23:20 NZDT: Report abusive post
Not only are these uniforms UGLY, they also make use of some beautiful, culturally meaningful motifs in a haphazard and disharmonious way. I'm sure these motifs could be more appropriately used on elegant pieces of attire by incorporating them in the style of symmetrical borders which would better reflect the culture and beauty of Aotearoa.
piwakawaka said on 2010-01-29 @ 20:59 NZDT: Report abusive post
Just the thought of a long haul flight with cabin crew in pink doesn't bear thinking about. Pattern is great, represents NZ but PINK.......Air NZ won't be first choice!
rupertnz said on 2010-01-29 @ 19:19 NZDT: Report abusive post
Maybe if we put an "H" in it then certain people in NZ would be happy!!!!