The Canterbury region of New Zealand’s South Island has taken a bold move to cement its position as a globally recognised centre of aerospace innovation, with the launch of the Waitaha Canterbury Aerospace Strategy. Developed by the Canterbury Aerospace Leadership Group – a coalition of leaders from the aerospace industry, tertiary institutions, and public agencies – the Strategy outlines a bold vision for Christchurch and Canterbury to become a global aerospace leader by 2035.
With a focus on innovation, sustainability, workforce development, and collaboration, the Strategy sets a clear path to transform the sector into a NZ$1bn contributor to the regional economy, positioning Canterbury as a hub for world-leading R&D and global investment.
“This Strategy is a uniting document that reflects the extraordinary potential of our region,” says Ali Adams, CEO of ChristchurchNZ and chair of the Canterbury Aerospace Leadership Group. “It showcases how Canterbury can lead the way in solving global challenges through aerospace – from climate monitoring to sustainable propulsion – while creating high-value jobs and driving innovation that benefits our people and our planet.”
The Strategy builds on Canterbury’s geographical advantages, established infrastructure, and active ecosystem of aerospace firms – from satellite technology and advanced aviation to autonomous systems and green fuels.
Christchurch is one of four members of the global Space Cities Network, established in late 2024 when ChristchurchNZ Business Events joined with Lausanne, Houston and Seoul convention bureaux to foster collaboration and attract conference bids to the respective regions.
ChristchurchNZ general manager of destination and attraction, Loren Aberhart says as part of the Strategy, the region aims to attract new conference bid opportunities and bring major international space conferences and scientific events to Christchurch. “Hosting international business events in Christchurch brings wide-ranging benefits to the city. As well as the obvious economic benefits, hosting global experts in domains of space means our sector is not only learning and sharing knowledge with other experts from around the world, but building valuable relationships,” Aberhart says.
Photo: L-R: Mark Rocket, Kea Aerospace; Miranda Satterthwaite, Aerospace New Zealand; Hon Judith Collins KC, Minister for Space; James Powell, Dawn Aerospace; David Downs, The New Zealand Story.
Find out more about Aerospace in Waitaha Canterbury and read the Strategy
Watch the Waitaha Canterbury Aerospace video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=caFAg664_R4
