Government increases space launch limit
The Government has announced the number of permitted space vehicle launches in New Zealand will increase from 100 to 1000.
Space launch limits increased to support growth | Beehive.govt.nz.
The 100-launch limit was set in 2017 and was due to be reached by mid-2026.
After the limit was reached, each launch would have to apply for a notified marine consent, which could take up to six months to get and cost up to $1 million.
The new 1000-launch limit could be reached by 2050 at the earliest.
MfE supported work to change the launch limits, undertaking targeted consultation on space launch debris regulations in October 2025.
Read the 2025 discussion document, and environmental report:
Reviewing regulations for space vehicle jettison debris in the Exclusive Economic Zone.