Space Engineering platform

The Government is investing in a Strategic Science Investment Fund (SSIF) platform for Space Engineering to strengthen New Zealand’s applied research capability.

University of Auckland’s Te Pūnaha Ātea - Space Institute (TPA-SI) is the host of the Platform. The TPA-SI supports applied research in space science, engineering, and educational activities that shape the next generation of space scientists and engineers.

MBIE funding

The Government is investing $4 million (excluding GST) over four years from 1 December 2024 to 30 November 2028.

About the research

This investment will strengthen New Zealand’s applied research capability in space engineering to foster the growth of its space sector. Investment aims include:

  • Build and Maintain Capability in New Zealand: Pursue science excellence and train students to support the development of a highly skilled and highly productive workforce necessary for sector expansion. Develop and maintain the capability and knowledge required to run complex space missions.
  • Support the Commercialisation Pipeline: Grow the pipeline of entrepreneurs and technical experts enhancing the space innovation ecosystem in New Zealand. Translate industry research outputs into commercial outcomes through partnerships and start-ups. Develop and pursue opportunities that provide economic benefit to New Zealand whilst fostering the growth of the New Zealand space sector.
  • Collaboration and Outreach: Foster new and existing collaborations between research organisations and industry, both nationally and internationally (eg by supporting the international Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee). Undertake outreach to research organisations to secure their use of the TPA-SI facilities.

Below is the contracted public statement from the University of Auckland.

Annual updates

Recipients of SSIF funding report yearly on the progress of their work programme. University of Auckland will have a public update published from their 2024/25 annual report in 2025.

More information

More information is available on The University of Auckland website:

Te Pūnaha Ātea Space Institute(external link) — The University of Auckland

Last updated: 04 June 2025