Air New Zealand has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the country's world champion All Blacks for the upcoming 2014 season.

The airline will this year launch a global campaign promoting the association between the two well known brands, featuring some equally recognisable faces - Richie McCaw, Dan Carter and Kieran Read.

Air New Zealand has also added Dan Carter as an ambassador this week. He joins teammate and All Blacks' captain Richie McCaw, who has had a longstanding partnership with the airline.

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Christopher Luxon says the airline remains extremely proud to support the country's favourite team both on the ground and in the air.

"We have been a sponsor of rugby in New Zealand for more than two decades and have been an official partner of the All Blacks since 1998. We are incredibly proud to showcase the best team in the world in key markets globally like Australia and the United Kingdom. This latest campaign that puts Richie McCaw, Dan Carter and Kieran Reid alongside our award-winning products and staff will centre further attention on our airline and nation to help drive the tourism industry," Mr Luxon says.

The new All Blacks brand campaign will feature in magazines, billboards, online and social media and will be launched in the lead up to the Steinlager Series against England.

New Zealand Rugby Chief Executive Steve Tew said Air New Zealand's partnership with the All Blacks continues to help strengthen the profile of the team on the world stage.

"Air New Zealand's longstanding support of rugby has provided a showcase for our teams and the silver fern both at home and throughout the world. As we head into another big year for our game, it's exciting to see Air New Zealand continue to identify new and innovative ways to work with the All Blacks."

ENDS

Issued by Air New Zealand Public Affairs ph +64 21 747 320

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