New Zealand has finally entered the space age, with the first-ever successful launch of an orbital rocket from a private pad.
US-New Zealand aerospace company Rocket Lab announced on Thursday it had successfully launched its Electron rocket from its facility in the remote Mahia Peninsula, between Napier and Gisborne.
"Made it to space. Team delighted. More to follow!" the company announced via Twitter about 4.30pm (2.30pm AEST).
The launch is the first time a rocket has been sent into orbit from a private facility, and makes New Zealand the 11th country where an orbital rocket has been launched.
Electron is designed to carry small satellites into low orbit cheaper than present alternatives, and Thursday's launch is planned to be first of three test flights.
