18 Jun 2026
4 months ago
793 views
New Zealand's manufacturing sector led economic growth in the March 2026 quarter, expanding 1.9 percent and significantly contributing to the country's 0.8 percent GDP growth. This growth was driven by innovative firms like Dawn Aerospace, Rocket Lab, and Fisher and Paykel Healthcare, reflecting strong productivity and forward orders. The government supports this sector through initiatives like the Investment Boost, aiming to enhance productivity and sustain manufacturing's role in New Zealand's economic recovery.
18 Jun 2026
4 months ago
853 views
New Zealand's manufacturing sector led economic growth in the March 2026 quarter, expanding 1.9 percent and driving a 0.8 percent overall GDP increase, with strong performance in transport equipment and machinery manufacturing. Key firms like Dawn Aerospace, Rocket Lab, and Fisher and Paykel Healthcare are spearheading innovation and productivity, supported by government initiatives such as the Investment Boost to encourage capital investment. Manufacturing, contributing around 8 percent of GDP and employing over 220,000 people, is central to New Zealand's economic recovery and future growth strategy.
15 May 2026
5 months ago
1007 views
Space Minister Chris Penk announced the first recipients of the Kiwi Space Activator pilot programme, awarding $1.48 million to Dawn Aerospace, the University of Canterbury, and the University of Auckland for innovative space technology projects. These initiatives address government-identified challenges, enhance New Zealand’s space innovation reputation, and include educational components to inspire future innovators. The programme aims to reduce barriers for testing new space technologies, with funding increased to $2.08 million for rounds one and two, and applications for round two closing on May 25, 2026.
26 Feb 2026
8 months ago
1311 views
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) will trial advanced drones from local company Syos Aerospace, supported by Sysdoc for training and Hirtenberger Defence Technology for system integration, to enhance military capabilities and boost the domestic defence industry. These trials will involve various drone types across air, land, and sea platforms in operational scenarios such as supply transport and maritime patrols, informing future capability decisions. This initiative aligns with the Defence Industry Strategy to build a resilient, innovative sector that reduces supply chain risks and supports economic growth through cutting-edge Kiwi technology.
25 Feb 2026
8 months ago
1277 views
The Applied Doctorates Scheme, supported by a $20 million government investment, connects PhD students with industry to address real-world challenges while developing advanced research and commercial skills. The 2025 cohort focused on energy innovation with 25 industry-led projects, and the 2026 round is now open for applications centered on Aerospace, Defence, and Security. This initiative aims to build a skilled research workforce that drives economic and community benefits for New Zealand through applied science.
26 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1169 views
New Zealand has introduced a pioneering advanced aviation rule enabling regulatory sandboxes for rapid, safe testing of new technologies without frequent Civil Aviation Authority approvals, benefiting innovators and the Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre. Updated drone regulations simplify rules by clarifying permitted low-risk uses like surveying under Part 101 and transferring some higher-risk activities to clearer frameworks, reducing red tape while maintaining safety. These changes, effective December 22, 2025, aim to foster growth in the advanced aviation sector by balancing innovation with strong safeguards and responsiveness to technological advancements.
18 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1257 views
Stefan Powell, co-founder and CEO of Dawn Aerospace, and Southland student Sophie Ineson are the 2025 recipients of the Prime Minister’s Space Prizes, recognized for their innovation and contributions to New Zealand’s growing space industry. The space sector has seen significant growth, with revenue increasing 53% to $2.68 billion and supporting 17,000 skilled jobs, highlighting its economic importance and potential. Both winners will receive financial awards to support their work and education, underscoring New Zealand’s commitment to fostering talent and leadership in the global space industry.
08 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1408 views
Space Minister Judith Collins highlights the growth and global relevance of New Zealand's space and advanced aviation sectors, aiming to double their value by 2030. The sectors have seen significant revenue increases, with space sector revenues reaching $2.68 billion and advanced aviation sector revenue estimated at $530 million in 2024. New Zealand is focused on building a high-tech economy, establishing a world-leading regulatory environment, and developing sovereign space capabilities to address global challenges.
27 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1208 views
New Zealand's growing space and aviation sectors will be highlighted at the 76th International Astronautical Congress in Sydney, with Space Minister Judith Collins leading the promotion of the country's innovation in space research, manufacturing, and satellite technologies. The space sector in New Zealand supported 17,000 jobs and generated $2.68 billion in revenue in 2024, with plans to double the size of both sectors by 2030. Ms. Collins will also participate in defense engagements in Sydney and speak at industry events, emphasizing the region's importance in shaping the future of space and advanced aviation.
24 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2624 views
Tāwhaki Joint Venture received a $5.85 million boost to support the growth of New Zealand's space and advanced aviation sectors. The Government aims to create a world-class regulatory environment for advanced aviation by the end of the year. The funding will help Tāwhaki scale up operations, attract new customers, and strengthen New Zealand's position in the global advanced aviation sector.
27 Jun 2025
1 year ago
3316 views
Canterbury’s Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre has been allocated permanent test flight airspace, giving advanced aviation companies the freedom to safely trial next-generation technologies, Space Minister Judith Collins announced today. “The Civil Aviation Authority’s (CAA) permanent special use airspace designation for Tāwhaki anchors Canterbury’s growing reputation as a national hub for space and advanced aviation innovation. ”
Ms Collins announced the Tāwhaki designation at the launch of the Waitaha Canterbury Aerospace Strategy, which aims to position Canterbury as a global leader in aerospace innovation by 2035.