Supporting business  |  8 Mar 2019

Christchurch is spearheading a search to find ways of using new aerospace technology to detect and monitor pollution.

The city’s promotion and economic devleopment agency, Christchurch NZ, has partnered with international aeronautics giant Airbus and the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment to launch the New Zealand Aerospace Challenge 2019.

The NZ Aerospace Challenge.

The NZ Aerospace Challenge has been launched in Christchurch.

The challenge encourages participants to use the very latest satellite and unmanned aircraft technology to create a product or service that detects, monitors or measures water or soil pollution.

Up to 20 participants will be invited onto a five month incubator programme with access to Airbus data and technology, mentorship from tech and agri specialists, and the use of testing solutions and guidance from Airways.

The challenge will culminate in a national demo and awards event in Christchurch in October, with the winning team receiving a cash prize of $30,000.

Applications for incubator support in the NZ Aerospace Challenge are now open.

The NZ Aerospace Challenge is the outcome of one of the initiatives from the Letter of Intent signed by Airbus and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment in 2018 as part the Government’s Innovative Partnerships programme.

The letter sets out a commitment to seek opportunities for Airbus to develop space data technology and unmanned aircraft systems in New Zealand.

Airbus Managing Director, Australia Pacific, Andrew Mathewson says the company is pleased to be involved in the NZ Aerospace Challenge and is committed to supporting the development of the space sector in New Zealand.

“We can’t wait to see what ideas will come about as part of the Challenge and how we can help solve a global problem,’’ Mr Mathewson says.

Minister of Research, Science and Innovation Dr Megan Woods says the Government is excited Airbus is engaging more closely with New Zealand’s business and research institutions, and partnering locally.

“The Challenge will seek to generate solutions for problems facing New Zealand’s agricultural sector and be a catalyst for stimulating innovation in unmanned aircraft and space data technology and applications,’’ Dr Woods says.

“Airbus is a world leader in aeronautics and space technology with deep knowledge and powerful data, and we are excited Airbus has chosen to come to New Zealand and engage closely with our research institutions.’’

Mayor Lianne Dalziel says the NZ Aerospace Challenge is a perfect fit with Christchurch being a testbed for innovation and a city that explores opportunity.

“We want to be at the forefront of the space and advanced aviation sectors. Our collaborative industry, strong high-tech manufacturing, agricultural sectors and open landscapes make the city and surrounding region a drawcard for innovators nationally and globally to explore all we have to offer,’’ the Mayor says.