The Canterbury region of New Zealand’s South Island is solidifying its global standing as a hub for aerospace innovation, marked by the recent 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.
The Strategy, focusing on innovation, sustainability, workforce development, and collaboration, outlines a clear path to transform the sector into a NZ$1 billion (US$598.7 million) contributor to the regional economy, positioning Canterbury as a hub for world-leading research and development and global investment.
Over the next decade, the Strategy’s other targets include supporting over 1,500 full-time jobs in aerospace across Canterbury, and reaching net-zero emissions for 50 per cent of the aerospace activities.
Ali Adams, CEO of ChristchurchNZ and chair of the Canterbury Aerospace Leadership Group, said: “(The Strategy) 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.”
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.
As part of the Strategy, ChristchurchNZ’s general manager of destination and attraction, Loren Aberhart, indicated that 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 said.
Mark Rocket, CEO of Kea Aerospace and a member of the Leadership Group, is also a champion for the city through the Tūwhana business events advocate programme.
“We’re standing on the launchpad of something extraordinary. With this Strategy, we are saying to the world: Canterbury is open for aerospace innovation. This is a region where bold ideas take flight – supported by a community that’s collaborative, future-focused, and committed to making a global impact.”
