A five-year plan has been developed to make Christchurch a gateway to space.

Christchurch is aiming to become the centre of New Zealand’s growing space flight industry by 2025.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment released the aerospace strategic plan on Wednesday which sets out how Christchurch will become a world recognised aerospace hub.

Christchurch Aerospace Centre chairman Mark Rocket said the city is in a good position to deliver on the ambitious goals.

“Christchurch is currently a major international gateway to the Antarctic and there's an exciting future pathway ahead where Christchurch could also be a gateway to space,” he said.

“The city contains the essential elements for success in the aerospace industry. 

"We have a well-connected sector that spans the breadth of the production process from development and design, testing, prototyping and assembly through to launch and data analytics.

ChristchurchNZ general manager innovation and business growth Richard Sandford said the aerospace sector is a natural fit and an important economic driver for the city.

“Aerospace is one of our existing strategic growth areas where we are building more talent, attracting and importantly retaining, high-value industry.

The five-year plan sets out nine goals. They aims to extend the use of existing testing facilities, identify locations for further test facilities, creating a prospectus for aerospace start-ups to enable efficient uptake of the city’s resources, regulatory pre-approval of flight zones, financial incentives for aerospace businesses and scholarship and education programmes.