NZ Aerospace Challenge launched for opportunity to lead way in agritech sector

Megan Woods says the Challenge will see contestants applying cutting-edge satellite and unmanned aircraft technology to water and soil management in the agricultural sector.

Research, Science and Innovation Minister Megan Woods today opened the New Zealand Aerospace Challenge 2019 with ChristchurchNZ and Airbus, a world leader in aeronautics and space technology.

Megan Woods says the Challenge will see contestants applying cutting-edge satellite and unmanned aircraft technology to water and soil management in the agricultural sector.

“This is an exciting opportunity for New Zealand to lead the way globally in agricultural sustainability, and further grow its presence in the multi-billion dollar global agritech sector.

“The outcomes of this competition will have real-world applications for the agricultural sector, as well as spill-over benefits into other R&D intensive industries.

“Nearly half of New Zealand’s greenhouse gas emissions come from agriculture, which is a central part of our economy. It is absolutely vital that we leverage new technologies as we look for innovative solutions to global challenges like climate change.

“In light of this, the Government has committed to increasing economy-wide R&D spending to two per cent of GDP, and we are excited Airbus has chosen to come to New Zealand and engage closely with our research institutions.

“Airbus is an experienced innovator with deep knowledge and great access to data and will be a terrific fit in our innovation ecosystem.

“Partnerships like these support the development of New Zealand as an internationally credible, competitive and connected R&D destination, and I’m looking forward to seeing the results of the Challenge.

“The Challenge is the first deliverable from a letter of intent between Airbus and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Innovative Partnerships programme. It’s another feather in the cap for the team, which has already welcomed Zephyr Airways and Leo Labs to set up operations here,” Megan Woods says.

Christchurch will host the Challenge which will see up to 20 New Zealand-based applicants invited onto a six-month incubator programme. They will have access to Airbus data and expertise, mentorship from tech and agriculture specialists and the use of testing solutions and guidance from Airways.

The Challenge will culminate in a national demo and pitch event in Christchurch in October 2019, with the winning team receiving a cash prize of $30,000.