A staple of 1970s footwear, the Bata Bullet sneaker, is making a comeback.
Bata New Zealand says young people have been asking the company to resume manufacturing them, as their tastes turn to retro styles. Operations manager Tony Harmer says the company started a Facebook page to gauge demand, and the overwhelming response was positive.
He says the shoes, once the company's biggest seller, will initally be made in the original style and will come in white, navy, black and grey. Other colours and styles may be added to the range depending on sales figures.
Mr Harmer says the 21st-century model of the shoe will be made of rubber, not PVC, and will have improved durability, slip resistance and more comfortable inner soles.
Ten million pairs of the shoes were sold in New Zealand during their heyday.