Permanent Special Use Airspace approved for Tāwhaki

New Zealand’s aerospace industry is set for a major leap forward as Tāwhaki secures permanent Special Use Airspace – a significant milestone in establishing the infrastructure that creates safe spaces for testing new technology and enables opportunities for Tāwhaki, Ōtautahi and Aotearoa.

With this new approval, operators will save time and resources by being able to use the Tāwhaki Special Use Airspace.

From 7 August 2025, Tāwhaki will oversee six ‘Restricted Areas’ and six ‘Danger Areas,’ that are permanently designated but only activated as required, ensuring operational flexibility while maintaining safety and minimising disruptions to other airspace users.

Restricted Areas allow Tāwhaki to manage the entry, exit and operations of aircraft in the Area. Danger Areas let airspace users know there is a potential danger to flying in the area. The designations are internationally recognised terms for managing airspace.

Tāwhaki Executive Director John Holt says the aerospace sector is moving at pace and the regulatory infrastructure is just as vital as the physical infrastructure.

“This Special Use Airspace is a significant piece of infrastructure that will unlock huge opportunities for New Zealand. It’s forward-looking, pragmatic and, most importantly, keeps safety absolutely paramount.

“We’re grateful to have been able to collaborate with our colleagues in the Emerging Technologies Programme Team at the CAA to make this a reality.”

Tāwhaki Head of Aerospace Stan Topping says the approval follows a multi-year journey with operators and regulators to create a safe environment where aerospace can be advanced within an environment that is easy to navigate.

“The diversity of aircraft being tested at Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre means we need flexibility but we also need a safe and robustly managed system that allows for rapid iteration and testing of advanced aviation and aerospace technologies,” he says.

“This approach enables operators to more efficiently prepare for testing and launching. Our team’s expertise will help ensure safety and regulatory compliance, while at the same time, supporting the aerospace ambitions of Aotearoa and global operators.”

“We have one of the world’s best locations for aerospace and space launch – and it’s a sector that is growing rapidly. This is a significant step in developing the infrastructure to ensure New Zealand can continue to leverage the opportunities aerospace presents,” he says.

Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre at Kaitorete is recognised as one of the world’s best locations for aerospace with vast, unpopulated landscape, clear skies and seas just 50 minutes’ from Ōtautahi Christchurch CBD.

Information for other airspace users is available at

• https://tawhaki.co.nz/tawhaki-national-aerospace-centre/tawhaki-special-use-airspace/