In a landmark collaboration, New Zealand and NASA have partnered on five major Earth observation research projects worth $5.6 million, aimed at strengthening climate resilience, improving environmental monitoring, and advancing space science innovation.
Announced by Science and Innovation Minister Dr Shane Reti and Space Minister Judith Collins, the joint initiative is part of New Zealand’s Catalyst Strategic Fund, overseen by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).
“These projects combine Kiwi research strength with NASA’s world-class space science to tackle real-world environmental challenges,” said Dr Reti.
Earth from Above: What the Projects Will Do
Backed by $1.9 million in NASA’s technical support, the projects focus on using satellite data and machine learning to address New Zealand’s most pressing climate and resource concerns.
Here are the five research projects:
Te Mātai Pū o te Kea (Kea Aerospace): Using high-altitude uncrewed aircraft, this project will monitor coastal erosion, sea-level changes, and ecosystem health.
Satellite Multi-Scale Hydrologic Framework: Focused on water systems in Te Hiku ō Te Ika, this will track evapotranspiration, groundwater flow, and flood risks using satellite-based hydrology models.
Monitoring Vegetation–Geothermal Interactions: Using both satellite and aerial data, this project studies how geothermal activity affects plant life, with applications in clean energy and conservation.
Real-Time Fuel Moisture Monitoring: A wildfire early warning system that combines remote sensing with drought tracking to help with firefighting and drought management.
AI-Driven Forest Health Mapping: Integrating machine learning and satellite images to create real-time maps of forest biomass and carbon stocks for sustainable forestry planning.
More Than Science: A Strategic Step
Space Minister Judith Collins hailed the partnership as not just scientific, but strategic. “This is a big step forward in our diplomatic and scientific ties with the United States. NASA’s trust in New Zealand’s research capability is significant,” she said.
The collaboration builds on New Zealand’s participation in the Artemis Accords, promoting peaceful and cooperative space exploration. It also aligns with the New Zealand Space Agency’s goals for ethical and sustainable space activity.
A Vision for Economic and Climate Resilience
Beyond environmental benefits, the projects are expected to support key industries like agriculture and forestry through improved forecasting and resource use.
“Remote sensing and AI are transformative tools that can help us prepare for floods, droughts, and fire while supporting sustainable economic growth,” said Dr Reti.
Each of the five projects will run for three years, setting a new benchmark for climate-smart innovation, and positioning New Zealand as a leader in Earth observation science and resilient development.