Announcement
Aerospace New Zealand is proud to announce that the Aotearoa Aerospace Academy is spinning out of Aerospace New Zealand to become an independent entity, led by Miranda Satterthwaite.
For the past several years, the Academy has served as the education engine of Aerospace New Zealand. Under the leadership of Miranda Satterthwaite, it has grown from a pilot initiative into a nationally recognised pathway, inspiring thousands of students through Mission to Space camps, rocketry workshops, and deep-dive STEM experiences.
Just as a rocket eventually stages to reach higher orbits, the Academy has now reached a scale where it requires its own dedicated vehicle to maximise its impact. This spin-off marks the evolution of the Academy from an internal program to a standalone educational powerhouse.
A Legacy of inspiration
When Aerospace New Zealand first launched the Academy, our goal was simple: to bridge the gap between classroom theory and the rapidly growing aerospace industry.
We introduced students to the reality of space habitation, from astronaut training to building Mars rover prototypes.
We connected the next generation with industry giants like Rocket Lab, Kea Aerospace, and Dawn Aerospace, turning “impossible dreams” into tangible career paths.
We championed diversity, launching dedicated camps for Māori and Pasifika students to ensure the future of our sector looks like Aotearoa's.
Miranda Satterthwaite drove this success. A NASA-trained educator and former Academy Director at the International Antarctic Centre, Miranda brought world-class pedagogy and infectious energy to the role. Her vision turned the Academy into a “must-do.”
Why Spin Out Now?
The demand for aerospace education in New Zealand is outpacing what an industry association can deliver alone.
Scale & Focus: As an independent entity, the Aotearoa Aerospace Academy can now pursue its own partnerships, secure dedicated funding, and expand its curriculum beyond the scope of Aerospace New Zealand’s mandate.
Agility: Independence allows the Academy to move faster, developing new modules on advanced manufacturing, AI, astrobiology, astronomy, mechatronics and sustainable aviation that align directly with the changing needs of the workforce.
The Future Relationship: While the Academy will now run independently, the bond with Aerospace New Zealand remains unbreakable. We will continue to be a key partner, providing the industry connections, guest speakers, and real-world context that make the Academy’s programs so valuable.
Miranda Satterthwaite will lead the organisation as it embarks on this exciting new trajectory. Her mission remains the same: to ensure that every student in New Zealand knows that the sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning. To Miranda and the entire Academy team: Thank you for building the launchpad. We can’t wait to see where you fly next.
The future is bright. The future is skilled. The future is here.
Careers in Aerospace Events
Event Recap
Event Recording
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Directory: STEM Outreach
Programs and Resources
There are many wonderful programs throughout Aotearoa encouraging tamariki and rangatahi to get excited about STEM. Listed below are some of these programs and organisations.
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Outreach on rocket construction, aerodynamics and launch for students and educators
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The Air Force Museum of New Zealand offers a variety of activities including a school holiday program. They also offer a variety of resources and support for educators visiting the Museum. The Aerospace New Zealand AAA Kidsfest Event was held in partnership with the Museum.
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The Air New Zealand Aviation Institute offers aviation and aerospace education and training programs. While primarily focused on aviation, they provide insights into the aerospace industry and offer opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in aerospace.
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Tūhura Tuarangi – Aotearoa in Space showcase
Discover interactive showcase Tūhura Tuarangi – Aotearoa in Space in a city or town near you.
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CATE is a professional organisation for people working in the fields of career and transition education.
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On-site astronomy with a range of telescopes including Cowans Hill and Mt John, available to take school groups. Working towards outreach programmes.
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Providing teachers with professional development. They develop relevant, comprehensive resource kits with all the materials needed to carry out engaging science lessons.
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Tēnā koe. Nau mai rā ki te kaupapa o Inspiring the Future. Inspiring the Future is an exciting free programme for schools across Aotearoa.
Based on local and international research, it challenges stereotypes that can limit young people’s potential – by introducing them to role models from the world of work. -
To assist us on our Matariki journey, Te Arawhiti has published this resource to celebrate and educate readers about the traditions and cultural importance of Matariki.
The booklet and online resource were created by Ahorangi Rangi Mātāmua to assist whānau to celebrate Matariki. -
Milky-Way.Kiwi is a social enterprise.
Every social enterprise has a beneficial goal, ours is to inspire people to think about our collective future and how they can actively contribute to it. We believe that quality science education with an added cosmic perspective can achieve that. -
The New Zealand Rocketry Association organises various events and activities to promote rocketry and space education. They offer workshops, competitions, and launch events for students interested in aerospace.
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Careers in space: Astronauts may be the most well-known space workers, but there’s a wide range of opportunities available for a space career! Find out more!
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Aerospace Education Programme by Rocket Lab: Rocket Lab, a leading aerospace company in New Zealand, offers an educational program aimed at inspiring and engaging students in aerospace activities. The program includes interactive workshops, rocket launches, and educational resources.
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Exploring space – resources including ‘Working in the space sector’ and ‘Can I work in the space industry?’
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Space Up! is a club for students attending high school in Aotearoa New Zealand who are passionate about space, or are just curious to learn more about space and the space sector - facilitated by Women in Space Aotearoa New Zealand (WISANZ).
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Professional Learning Development for teachers and space education programmes for your students through immersive experiences.
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Located in Wellington, Space Place is an interactive museum and observatory that offers educational programs for students and the general public. They have workshops, stargazing sessions, and exhibits that cover various aspects of aerospace and space science.
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Located in Auckland, Stardome offers a range of educational programs and workshops related to astronomy and space science. They have dedicated programs that cover topics such as rocketry, space exploration, and the solar system.
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Student360 offers a taste of the world of work before students finish secondary school. They want to help students understand their strengths and skills as they explore a future career pathway.
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This organization brings interactive science and technology exhibits to schools and communities across New Zealand. They have exhibits and workshops on aerospace-related topics, including rocket science, aviation, and space exploration.
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The Wonder Project is Engineering New Zealand’s free programme for schools, designed to get young Kiwis excited about science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).
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WiE CAN is a 5 day/4 night Women in Engineering residential programme featuring a range of interactive workshops, inspiring presentations, and fun social activities. You will be immersed in student life and experience the range of engineering subjects on offer at UC.