The Rocket Lab company has set up their Launch Complex 1 close to Ahuriri Point to launch their Electron rocket. Test launches of the Electron started in 2017. During regular operations, it is used as a commercial launcher of small satellites in the range of 300-500 pounds, and miniature satellites called CubeSats.[2] New Zealand's first orbital space launch took place from Launch Complex 1 on 21 January 2018.