Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre
Tāwhaki is a partnership between the New Zealand Government and the indigenous people of Kaitorete –Wairewa Rūnanga and Te Taumutu Rūnanga.
The organisation has established the National Aerospace Centre at Kaitorete.
The organisation's purpose is to advance Aotearoa’s aerospace industry and rejuvenate the unique whenua (land) at Kaitorete.
- Type
- Test infrastructure
- Capabilities
- Location
- Ōtautahi, Canterbury (South Island)Editorial
- Sectors served
- Space
- Website
- tawhaki.co.nz
- Last checked
- 28 October 2026
New Zealand facilities
- National Aerospace Centre Editorial
“We have established the National Aerospace Centre at Kaitorete: a multi-use facility in one of the world’s best locations to take flight, launch, and discover new horizons.”
Where it works in New Zealand
- Ōtautahi, Canterbury Editorial
- National Aerospace Centre Editorial
Common questions about Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre
Where is Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre based in New Zealand?
Ōtautahi, Canterbury.
What facilities does Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre have in New Zealand?
National Aerospace Centre (Kaitorete, Canterbury).
Which sectors does Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre serve?
Space.
How can I contact Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre?
Through its website, tawhaki.co.nz.
Updates
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NZ an emerging strategic launch hub for European space industry
Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre and SpaceDreamS confirmed that the site is technically and operationally suitable for vertical launch. The parties are continuing discussions with government agencies and stakeholders regarding the development of the facility.
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Tāwhaki and UC partnership opens pathways for rangatahi in aerospace, science and whenua
Tāwhaki and the University of Canterbury signed a partnership agreement to expand opportunities for rangatahi in aerospace and science. The agreement formalises a relationship that has developed since Tāwhaki was established in 2021.
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DLR-Tāwhaki agreement creates aerospace sister centres
Tāwhaki and the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) have signed a five-year strategic partnership to create a “sister centres” framework for shared research and uncrewed aviation advancement.
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Permanent Special Use Airspace approved for Tāwhaki
A permanent Special Use Airspace has been approved for Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre and will be managed by Tāwhaki Joint Venture. From 7 August 2025, Tāwhaki will oversee six Restricted Areas and six Danger Areas that are permanently designated but only activated as required.
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Industry collaboration to advance fast-growing aerospace sector in Aotearoa
Airways International and Tāwhaki Joint Venture have announced a collaboration agreement to support the growth of the New Zealand aerospace sector. The agreement identifies key target areas to fast-track testing of uncrewed aircraft.
All 6 updates from Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre
Jobs
The directory does not list this organisation's roles yet.
Sources
About 3 sources
- Editorial
“Tāwhaki is a partnership between the New Zealand Government and the indigenous people of Kaitorete –Wairewa Rūnanga and Te Taumutu Rūnanga.”
- Editorial
“We have established the National Aerospace Centre at Kaitorete”
- Editorial
“At the heart of Tāwhaki is a kaupapa (purpose) to advance Aotearoa’s aerospace industry and rejuvenate the unique whenua (land) at Kaitorete.”
Organisation type 1 source
-
“A phased approach is being taken to introduce aerospace activity, commencing with a small-scale multi-use Aerospace Research Site that will provide a location to support innovators to test their technologies.”
Capability 1 source
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“A phased approach is being taken to introduce aerospace activity, commencing with a small-scale multi-use Aerospace Research Site that will provide a location to support innovators to test their technologies.”
Location 1 source
- Editorial
“Tāwhaki HQ: Unit 5, 1 Waterman Place, Ferrymead, Ōtautahi 8023”
New Zealand facility 1 source
- Editorial
“We have established the National Aerospace Centre at Kaitorete: a multi-use facility in one of the world’s best locations to take flight, launch, and discover new horizons.”
Sector served 1 source
-
“At the heart of Tāwhaki is a kaupapa (purpose) to advance Aotearoa’s aerospace industry and rejuvenate the unique whenua (land) at Kaitorete.”