Canterbury Launches Ambitious Aerospace Strategy
The Waitaha Canterbury Aerospace Strategy was launched today at the Wigram Airforce Museum, marking a milestone in the region's ambition to be a globally recognised centre of aerospace innovation.
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 Canterbury to become a global aerospace leader by 2035. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, workforce development, and collaboration, it sets a clear path to transform the sector into a $1 billion contributor to the regional economy.
'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 unique geographical advantages, established infrastructure, and active ecosystem of aerospace firms – from satellite technology and advanced aviation to autonomous systems and green fuels.
Mark Rocket, CEO of Kea Aerospace and a member of the Leadership Group, says the sector has huge momentum. '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.'
A vision for 2035
The Strategy sets out ambitious targets for the next decade, including:
• Growing the sector to more than $1 billion in economic impact regionally • Supporting more than 1,500 FTE jobs in aerospace across Canterbury
• Achieving net-zero emissions for 50% of aerospace companies
• Reaching 20% Māori and Pacific Peoples workforce representation
• Positioning Canterbury as a hub for world-leading R&D and global investment
'By 2035, aerospace will be a cornerstone of Canterbury's prosperity,' says Adams. 'But this isn't just about growth – it's about building a future that's inclusive, sustainable, and driven by innovation.'
ABOUT CHRISTCHURCHNZ:
ChristchurchNZ is the city's sustainable economic development and city profile agency. Our purpose is to stimulate sustainable economic growth for a more prosperous Christchurch. Find out more at ChristchurchNZ.com
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