The plan follows Canterbury’s largest city Christchurch becoming a founding member of the international Space Cities Network last year, which seeks to advance the global space industry through events and collaboration.
Guided by the Waitaha Canterbury Aerospace Strategy, the region hopes to develop an NZ$1 billion aerospace sector over the next 10 years.
“This strategy is a uniting document that reflects the extraordinary potential of our region,” said ChristchurchNZ CEO, Ali Adams, who also chaired the Canterbury Aerospace Leadership Group that developed the strategy.
“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.
“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.”
Attracting conferences related to the aerospace sector is part of the plan.
“Hosting international business events in Christchurch brings wide-ranging benefits to the city,” said ChristchurchNZ’s general manager of destination and attraction, Loren Aberhart.
“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.”
The city has some of the building blocks in place to help it achieve its aerospace ambitions, with CEO of Kea Aerospace and member of the Canterbury Aerospace Leadership Group, Mark Rocket, already part of Christchurch’s business events ambassador program, Tūwhana, which leverages sector experts to help the destination secure international meetings.
“We’re standing on the launchpad of something extraordinary,” said Rocket.
“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.”
