Prime Minister’s Space Prizes

In 2024 the Government established 2 awards to recognise the talented people working in New Zealand's space and advanced aviation sectors and inspire young people.

These 2 awards are composed of:

  • The Prime Minister’s Space Prize for Professional Excellence. This prize is for a professional working in the space sector and/or advanced aviation sector. It recognises their outstanding achievements and contribution to the sector.
  • The Prime Minister’s Space Prize for Student Endeavour. This prize is for a Year 12 or 13 student who is undertaking or has recently completed a science, technology or engineering project related to the space sector and/or advanced aviation sector.

More information on these awards is available on the Prime Minister’s Space Prizes website.

The Prime Minister's Space Prizes(external link)

Applications are open for the 2026 awards

Applications are now open for the Prime Minister’s Space Prizes 2026. Each award has a different closing date for applications.

To apply for either award, visit the relevant page on the Prime Minister’s Space Prizes website.

The Prime Minister’s Space Prize for Professional Excellence

Applications close on Tuesday 21 July 2026.

The Prime Minister’s Space Prize for Professional Excellence(external link) – The Prime Minister’s Space Prizes

Apply for the Space Prize for Professional Excellence(external link) – The Prime Minister’s Space Prizes

The Prime Minister’s Space Prize for Student Endeavour

Applications close on Wednesday 30 September 2026.

The Prime Minister’s Space Prize for Student Endeavour(external link) – The Prime Minister’s Space Prizes

Apply for the Space Prize for Student Endeavour(external link) – The Prime Minister’s Space Prizes

Last updated: 30 June 2026