AUCKLAND— Air New Zealand (NZ) has released the findings of its internal investigation into Project 32, an onboard snack supplier whose packaging claimed the company was “New Zealand Owned.”
The review was launched after concerns emerged that the supplier’s ownership structure did not match the branding presented on its products. The issue gained attention after inquiries revealed that the company’s shareholders were Australian entities and its directors, Daniel and David Rifkin, were based in Australia.
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Air New Zealand Review Project 32
Air New Zealand, which operates from major hubs including Auckland (AKL), Wellington (WLG), and Christchurch (CHC), said the matter required prompt clarification given the airline’s emphasis on transparent supplier relationships, reported NewsTalkZB.
According to the airline, the investigation confirmed that the statement printed on Project 32’s packaging was not accurate at the time it was produced.
The snack supplier had been providing products to Air New Zealand since November 2023 across a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Air New Zealand stated that although Project 32 was registered in New Zealand, it did not meet the ownership criteria implied on its packaging. The airline said this discrepancy necessitated corrective action to ensure passengers received fully accurate product information.
Photo: By G B_NZ – Air New Zealand/Mount Cook ATR 72-500 at PMR. My flight to AKL just arriving from the inbound AKL in refurbed colours and interior, matching the -600’s., CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=57985900
Ownership Changes
Air New Zealand reported that Project 32 cooperated fully throughout the review. Following the concerns raised, the company appointed New Zealander Janice Tan as a director, effectively shifting the business to New Zealand ownership.
The airline said the supplier has committed to redesigning its packaging artwork, and work is already underway to ensure updated labels appear on future stock.
Project 32 also agreed to improve transparency over its charitable donation model, moving from annual to quarterly cycles to offer greater clarity.
Air New Zealand highlighted that continued use of current stock is necessary to prevent unnecessary waste and preserve gluten-free certification linked to existing packaging. It added that already-committed donations must also remain on track, which supports community programmes scheduled for this year.
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Stronger Verification Steps
The carrier said it has strengthened its internal processes to prevent similar issues in the future.
This includes enhanced verification protocols for supplier packaging claims and more detailed checks before new products enter service.
Air New Zealand emphasised that supplier compliance has become a larger focus as passengers increasingly expect accurate sourcing information.
The airline intends to apply these improved standards across all product categories.
Photo: G B_NZ | Wikimedia Commons
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Bottom Line
Air New Zealand’s review concluded that the “New Zealand Owned” claim on Project 32’s packaging was incorrect when produced, prompting ownership changes and tighter oversight requirements.
With updated packaging expected by the end of summer and strengthened verification procedures in place, the airline aims to avoid similar issues while maintaining trust in its onboard product range.
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