The Minister for Space is a minister in the New Zealand Government with responsibility for outer space and advanced aviation in New Zealand.[1]

Minister for Space
since 27 November 2023
Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment
StyleThe Honourable
Member of
Reports toPrime Minister of New Zealand
AppointerGovernor-General of New Zealand
Term lengthAt His Majesty's pleasure
Formation27 November 2023
First holderJudith Collins

The current Minister for Space is Judith Collins of the National Party.[2]

History

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In October 2023, National party leader Christopher Luxon promised a Minister for Space if his party was elected in the 2023 general election.[3] The aim of the portfolio is to help promote the aerospace sector within New Zealand and to “streamline the rules” to focus on opening up immigration for aerospace workers.[1][4] Previously the Minister for Economic Development was responsible for space-related policy.[1] New Zealand is one of only 11 countries with active launch-to-orbit capability, and the industry contributes $1.7 billion to the New Zealand economy.[1]

List of Ministers for Space

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The following ministers have held the office of Minister for Space.

Key

  National

No. Name Portrait Term of office Prime Minister
1 Judith Collins   27 November 2023 Incumbent Luxon

References

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  1. ^ a b c d McConnell, Glenn (5 October 2023). "National leader Christopher Luxon promises a space minister if elected as Prime Minister". Stuff. Retrieved 27 November 2023.
  2. ^ "Collins, Judith - New Zealand Parliament". www.parliament.nz. Retrieved 27 November 2023.
  3. ^ Hendry-Tennent, Ireland (5 October 2023). "Election 2023: National promises new Minister for Space, fast-tracked visa category if elected". Newshub. Retrieved 27 November 2023.
  4. ^ "National promises Space Minister and prize for top school student". RNZ. 5 October 2023. Retrieved 27 November 2023.