Commonwealth Games uniform with sustainable edge unveiled
The New Zealand Olympic Committee has unveiled the official uniform for the New Zealand team attending next month’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
Developed with official apparel partner Kathmandu, the selection of uniforms brings together “performance innovation, national identity and legacy design details that reflect both New Zealand and the host city of Glasgow”.
The main uniform is made from recycled plastic waste, including end-of-life car tyres, the jacket and trousers are designed to stand out when New Zealand Team athletes step on to the podium.
“As athletes, we need kit that works across every part of the Games experience, from travel and village life to stepping onto the podium and ceremonies,” said pole vaulter and Commonwealth Games silver medallist Eliza McCartney.
“This collection feels considered, comfortable and easy to wear, which makes a real difference when you’re focused on getting your head into performance mode.”
Joining the collection is a modern take on the ceremonial uniform. The opening ceremony jacket reimagines the traditional formalwear blazer. It is designed to offer natural wind and water resistance without synthetic coatings or membranes.
The rugby jersey makes its return from the Olympic Winter Games, this time connecting Aotearoa New Zealand, with the host city, incorporating Scottish Gaelic lettering as a subtle tribute to Glasgow and the Games’ Scottish setting.
Commonwealth Games athletes model the uniform for Glasgow 2026.
Kiwi gymnast Courtney McGregor models the uniform for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Developed with direct input from athletes and tested in New Zealand conditions, the Glasgow 2026 collection has been created to support the physical demands of competition preparations, while also recognising the emotional significance of wearing the fern.
Within the wider team kit, Kathmandu has also included the iconic NZZN mark, created for the 1974 Commonwealth Games in Christchurch by Scottish-born designer Colin Simon. Used alongside the Silver Fern, the mark adds a heritage thread to the broader collection, linking New Zealand’s Commonwealth Games history with a new generation of athletes representing Aotearoa on the world stage.
Three-time Paralympic gold medallist, Anna Grimaldi, added: “Putting on the New Zealand Team uniform is one of those moments where the Games suddenly feel close. It’s exciting to wear something designed in Aotearoa New Zealand, with details, like NZZN, that connect us to those who came before us, while we prepare to compete in Glasgow. The fact that the uniforms have been created with athletes of all abilities in mind makes them even more special.“
Each athlete’s opening ceremony jacket features a personalised code in the inner lining, connecting them to messages of encouragement from people across Aotearoa throughout the Games.
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