Canterbury has launched an ambitious aerospace strategy that aims to grow the sector into a $1 billion contributor to the regional economy by 2035, positioning the region as a global centre for innovation, sustainability, and high-value job creation.
Developed by the Canterbury Aerospace Leadership Group, the strategy outlines a vision to build advanced infrastructure, attract global investment, expand workforce diversity, and integrate aerospace technologies across industries to improve productivity and environmental outcomes.
“This strategy is a uniting document that reflects the extraordinary potential of our region,” said ChristchurchNZ Chief Executive and Chair of the Leadership Group Ali Adams. “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.”
Mark Rocket, Photo credit: ChristchurchNZ
Kea Aerospace Chief Executive Mark Rocket said Canterbury was “standing on the launchpad of something extraordinary” and described the region as “a place where bold ideas take flight, supported by a community that is collaborative, future focused, and committed to making a global impact.”
The strategy defines aerospace in Canterbury as encompassing “a dynamic range of technologies and systems that operate at various altitudes and scales.” This includes aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, aerospace-enabled services, and technologies that harness aerospace data. It clearly excludes military defence systems and commercial airline operations to preserve the region’s role as a neutral and trusted testing ground.
According to the document, “Waitaha Canterbury is an incubator for aerospace innovation, where creativity meets practical solutions. It is a region that embodies the spirit of collaboration and forward thinking, where global challenges are met with local ingenuity.”
ChristchurchNZ Chief Executive and Chair of the Leadership Group Ali Adams
It says aerospace is about more than advanced technology. “It’s about using our strengths to make a positive difference in the world,” the strategy states. “We are committed to fostering aerospace solutions that address real-world challenges – whether that’s harnessing satellite data for better climate monitoring, developing sustainable propulsion systems, or ensuring young people can have exciting opportunities in our workforce.”
The strategy outlines a set of targets to be achieved by 2035. These include reaching $1 billion in annual economic impact, supporting more than 1,500 full-time aerospace jobs, achieving net zero operations for at least 50 percent of aerospace companies, and reaching 20 percent Māori and Pacific Peoples workforce representation. It also aims to attract $500 million in total public and private investment.
It positions Canterbury as an ideal launchpad, citing the region’s clear skies, low air traffic, strong manufacturing base, Antarctic research heritage, and highly collaborative ecosystem. It notes that “Christchurch is at the heart of New Zealand’s electronic manufacturing landscape” and that “existing test-bed facilities, regional airports, and a responsive regulatory environment” allow for rapid development and experimentation.
Workforce development is another major pillar of the plan. The University of Canterbury is home to New Zealand’s only aerospace minor and offers specialist postgraduate programmes. Other institutions including Ara and Lincoln University contribute complementary skill sets. The strategy says, “Our goal is to make Canterbury the best place to work in aerospace in Aotearoa New Zealand.”
The document also makes clear that Canterbury’s aerospace sector is values-led. “We prize innovation, sustainability, and collaboration,” it says. “Our culture values stewardship and respect for our land and communities. These principles drive us to develop transportation solutions and aerospace technologies that not only push boundaries but also benefit our local and global communities.”
Adams said the strategy is about much more than economic returns. “By 2035, aerospace will be a cornerstone of Canterbury’s prosperity. But this isn’t just about growth – it’s about building a future that’s inclusive, sustainable and driven by innovation.”
More information is available at christchurchnz.com/aerospace.
