Latest news with #MarkRocket
Scoop
26-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Canterbury Launches Ambitious Aerospace Strategy
The Strategy builds on Canterburys unique geographical advantages, established infrastructure, and active ecosystem of aerospace firms from satellite technology and advanced aviation to autonomous systems and green fuels. 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
Scoop
26-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
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:
Scoop
04-06-2025
- Sport
- Scoop
Flying NZ 2025: Instructors At The Heart Of Aviation Safety And Growth
A highlight of this years event is the Instructor Safety Summit, held in conjunction with the AGM and free for all powered instructors. Flying New Zealand (Flying NZ) is thrilled to announce its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM), Conference, and Instructor Safety Summit— at Sudima Christchurch Airport on 26-27 July. This year's event is a must for powered flight instructors and all who help shape the future of New Zealand aviation by putting safety, and professional growth front and centre. A highlight of this year's event is the Instructor Safety Summit, held in conjunction with the AGM and free for all powered instructors. Recognising the important role flight instructors play in advancing aviation safety and training, Flying NZ—in partnership with the New Zealand Aviation Federation (NZAF)—is offering a transport subsidy to each club sending instructors. This benefit is available to powered instructors, including those from non-Flying NZ clubs, highlighting both of the organisation's commitment to inclusivity and sector-wide safety. Attendees will enjoy direct access to key CAA safety advisors, who will deliver the latest updates on safety procedures and investigation processes. The Instructor Council summit on Saturday afternoon provides a unique forum for instructors to share best practices and discuss challenges with peers and CAA representatives. One-on-one opportunities with CAA staff ensure that instructors leave with actionable insights for their clubs and students. The event also features an Awards and Presentation Dinner on Saturday evening for its members & affiliates, with a special guest speaker from Kea Aerospace – Mark Rocket the first New Zealander in space. Sunday's conference sessions focus on supporting, encouraging, promoting, and growing general aviation, with practical workshops on club development, volunteer retention, and youth engagement initiatives such as the Young Eagles programme. Beyond the AGM and Conference, Flying NZ—previously the Royal New Zealand Aero Club (RNZAC)—continues to provide invaluable support to its member clubs that support over 4000 individuals across NZ. This includes the pilot proficiency programme, regional and national competitions for skill development, Young Eagles scholarships and support, membership cards offering reciprocal rights at clubs nationwide, and strong national advocacy efforts. Flying NZ's heritage as the RNZAC, which held a royal charter, highlights its lasting commitment to leadership, excellence, and the highest standards in aviation—a tradition that still guides the organisation today. As the national body for recreational and sport aviation, Flying NZ represents the interests of New Zealand's aviation community both at home and internationally, including as the New Zealand representative of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI). For over 90 years, Flying NZ ( RNZAC), has been at the forefront of advancing safety, excellence, and the growth of general aviation in New Zealand.
Scoop
04-06-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Flying NZ 2025: Instructors At The Heart Of Aviation Safety And Growth
Flying New Zealand (Flying NZ) is thrilled to announce its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM), Conference, and Instructor Safety Summit— at Sudima Christchurch Airport on 26-27 July. This year's event is a must for powered flight instructors and all who help shape the future of New Zealand aviation by putting safety, and professional growth front and centre. A highlight of this year's event is the Instructor Safety Summit, held in conjunction with the AGM and free for all powered instructors. Recognising the important role flight instructors play in advancing aviation safety and training, Flying NZ—in partnership with the New Zealand Aviation Federation (NZAF)—is offering a transport subsidy to each club sending instructors. This benefit is available to powered instructors, including those from non-Flying NZ clubs, highlighting both of the organisation's commitment to inclusivity and sector-wide safety. Attendees will enjoy direct access to key CAA safety advisors, who will deliver the latest updates on safety procedures and investigation processes. The Instructor Council summit on Saturday afternoon provides a unique forum for instructors to share best practices and discuss challenges with peers and CAA representatives. One-on-one opportunities with CAA staff ensure that instructors leave with actionable insights for their clubs and students. The event also features an Awards and Presentation Dinner on Saturday evening for its members & affiliates, with a special guest speaker from Kea Aerospace - Mark Rocket the first New Zealander in space. Sunday's conference sessions focus on supporting, encouraging, promoting, and growing general aviation, with practical workshops on club development, volunteer retention, and youth engagement initiatives such as the Young Eagles programme. Beyond the AGM and Conference, Flying NZ—previously the Royal New Zealand Aero Club (RNZAC)—continues to provide invaluable support to its member clubs that support over 4000 individuals across NZ. This includes the pilot proficiency programme, regional and national competitions for skill development, Young Eagles scholarships and support, membership cards offering reciprocal rights at clubs nationwide, and strong national advocacy efforts. Flying NZ's heritage as the RNZAC, which held a royal charter, highlights its lasting commitment to leadership, excellence, and the highest standards in aviation—a tradition that still guides the organisation today. As the national body for recreational and sport aviation, Flying NZ represents the interests of New Zealand's aviation community both at home and internationally, including as the New Zealand representative of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI). For over 90 years, Flying NZ ( RNZAC), has been at the forefront of advancing safety, excellence, and the growth of general aviation in New Zealand.
Otago Daily Times
03-06-2025
- Science
- Otago Daily Times
Christchurch entrepreneur becomes the first New Zealander in space
Christchurch entrepreneur Mark Rocket has become the first New Zealander to make it into space. Rocket made history on board the 12th crewed flight for Blue Origin's New Shepard programme in West Texas. Rocket told The Press the flight exceeded his expectations. "It was incredibly intense," he told The Press. "Just a really amazing space flight." With a New Zealand flag in hand, Rocket and five others levelled off 105km above the Earth, where they experienced zero gravity for 11 minutes. Blue Origin's New Shepard programme is run by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos' space tourism company. Mark Rocket out of his seat during the sub-orbital flight on Blue Origin's NS-32 mission. Photo: Blue Origin Rocket told The Press he experienced "fairly steady acceleration" after lift-off. But once they reached "3400km/h, the acceleration is just absolutely incredible". When the main engine cut off and the booster separated from the rocket, the crew experienced zero gravity. He said a highlight was doing flips in mid-air in the true darkness of space. "It was just a totally immersive, full-on, thrilling experience," Rocket told The Press. "So I did another backflip and jumped into the seat and within a minute you're doing quite a few Gs and it goes up to about 5Gs." -APL
