New Zealand outdoor clothing brand Kathmandu is entering a new era, marked by stronger ties to its New Zealand heritage, the introduction of a new product category and the launch of a timeless brand campaign.

Founded in Christchurch in 1987, New Zealand’s wilderness first ignited Kathmandu’s passion for the outdoors. Recognising this overwhelming importance, Kathmandu is now more intentional about its roots, actively pursuing a deeper connection to Aotearoa and channelling this throughout the business, from product design, product categories, marketing campaigns, in-store experiences, brand partnerships and more.

In response to the growing trend among consumers choosing outdoor training, Kathmandu is introducing a new product category – Outdoor Active – which, alongside Hike and Adventure Travel, is the brand’s main focus area.

In its first iteration, Outdoor Active is designed for consumers who value spontaneity and short moments of outdoor activity as part of their daily routine, focusing on versatility, adaptability and comfort. The category, called the “Seeker” series, will continue to grow over the next two years.

This month also sees the launch of a new evergreen brand campaign in Kathmandu – Come and find us. We are there. It is an invitation to all to come to Kathmandu and experience together the transformative power of nature.

In Kathmandu’s first collaboration with Auckland-based creative agency Motion Sickness Come and find us. We are there. marks a genuine shift towards showcasing the rawness and authenticity of the New Zealand outdoor landscape, while also conveying the joy that people experience inside when they spend time outdoors.

The campaign, set entirely on Great Barrier Island – 100km off the coast of Auckland – accessible only by plane or ferry, home to around 1000 permanent residents, showcases the beauty of life in New Zealand’s wilds.

Come and find us. We are there. celebrates the people of Barrier. Locals demonstrate what it means to truly live out thereand for this reason, Kathmandu invited them to take part in the campaign. Captured in a makeshift studio in a local community hall on the island, the nine candidates posed candidly, styling themselves in new Kathmandu attire and proudly embracing their rich culture and uninhibited personalities.

Further reinforcing the New Zealand spirit of the campaign is narration by retired New Zealand radio icon Kim Hill and specially composed music produced entirely by Auckland music producers.

Kathmandu’s General Manager Marketing, Jo O’Sullivan, said: “This is a significant moment in the history of the Kathmandu brand and we are proud to share it. New Zealand and all that it represents is at the heart of Kathmandu’s story and we are excited to celebrate our heritage in everything we do in the future.

“New Zealand’s wildlife continues to inspire us not only to get outside more, but to create thoughtfully designed and sustainably manufactured gear to help our community do the same. Come and find us. We are there. sets a new tone for our brand, connecting with what first made us fall in love with the outdoors over 30 years ago – the peace, connection and meaning we discover, and this campaign invites our community to join us in experiencing this together.”