UKTN can exclusively reveal that the UK and New Zealand’s space sectors will join forces to tackle climate issues facing both Earth and outer space as part of new agreements struck during New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s visit to the UK this week.
As part of a new UK-New Zealand space science partnership, the two countries are launching an open call for joint Earth observation demonstrator projects.
This work will bring together scientists and innovators from both countries, to bring this technology – using satellites to get a bird’s eye view on what’s happening down below – to help boost resilience to climate change, tackle water scarcity, and make farming more sustainable.
Both governments have also agreed to work together on caring for outer space itself, building on a joint framework agreed by the two countries in 2024 to support the safe removal of defunct satellites from orbit.
This partnership builds on the Astra Carta – a roadmap for sustainability in the space sector unveiled by King Charles III in 2023.
🇳🇿Yesterday afternoon at Windsor Castle, the Prime Minister of New Zealand was received in audience by The King. pic.twitter.com/hjaO2sCUhm
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) April 22, 2025
Science Minister Lord Vallance explains how the UK and New Zealand’s alignment towards ambitions for the planet will create a successful partnership. “New Zealand’s prowess in space is growing rapidly, which is evident from the success of companies like Rocket Lab, and the fact the country hosted the world’s third-highest number of orbital launches last year,” he said.
“We are also two countries alike in our care for nature and the world around us. So it makes complete sense that we pool our talents and expertise, to use space-based technologies to protect our planet, and to act as responsible custodians of space itself.
“From communications, to navigation, to weather forecasting, space is a fundamental part of modern life and the global economy. Working with New Zealand to sustainably benefit from breakthroughs in the space sector will grow the economy, create jobs, and support the Plan for Change,” he added.
The new UK-New Zealand space science partnership is funded through the International Science Partnerships Fund, which is supporting UK scientists and innovators to work with peers around the world on some of the most pressing issues facing the planet.
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