A new headquarters for the Awarua Satellite Ground Station near Bluff is now under construction, with the $4.55 million project set to bring additional skilled jobs to Southland.
Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson revealed the project was underway. The development receives $2.25 million in Regional Infrastructure Fund support, with Space Operations New Zealand leading the project through co-investment alongside the government loan.
The development will include a multi-purpose headquarters building, workshops and supporting infrastructure. The Awarua workforce will grow from its current 21 roles to around 30 highly skilled positions once complete, with around 10 positions created during construction.
Awarua already operates as part of global satellite operations. Work is expected to finish in early 2027.