Air New Zealand to review 2m Euro brief

Air New Zealand is reviewing its 2m European advertising account, which has been handled by Fox Kalomaski for 12 years. It is thought the agency has been invited to repitch.

kiwi%20airAir New Zealand is reviewing its £2m European advertising account, which has been handled by Fox Kalomaski for 12 years. It is thought the agency has been invited to repitch.

The review, which is being overseen by the AAR, is in the early stages with a shortlist expected before Christmas and pitches taking place in the New Year.

The move is part of a wider review of the brand’s positioning. It has been prompted by its rebrand in 2005 and the launch of a new route to Hong Kong, but also comes ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2011.

Air New Zealand’s European marketing manager, Kathryn Gregory says: “All this change means that now is the right time for us to review agencies. We need to ensure we have the strongest team in place to meet our long-term ambitions of not just being the major carrier to New Zealand, but also to Hong Kong and Los Angeles.”

The media planning and buying account, which is handled by Walker Media, will not be affected by the review.

The airline flies from the UK to New Zealand twice a day from Heathrow via Hong Kong and Los Angeles. In 2005 it had a complete refit of its fleet and now offers a threeclass service comprising business, premium economy and economy.

The company is part of the global Star Alliance network, which also includes the BMI, United Airlines, Air Canada, Lufthansa and Singapore Airlines.