Flying a drone in New Zealand

Civil Aviation (CAA) / Part 101

If you’re flying under Part 101 (most recreational or non-certified drones), here are the key rules:

• Maximum aircraft weight: Less than 25 kg

• Maximum height: 120 metres (400 feet) above ground level

• Visual line of sight: Drone must always be in direct sight of the pilot

• Daylight only: Fly only in daylight and good visibility (no clouds/fog)

• Aerodromes / airports: Stay at least 4 km from any aerodrome unless special permission is given

• Restricted airspace: Do not enter restricted, military, or controlled airspace without authorisation

• Over people and property: Must have consent from people or landowners before flying over them

• Give way: Always give way to manned aircraft and land if necessary

To fly outside these limits (e.g. at night, beyond line of sight, heavier drones), you need a Part 102 certification.

Department of Conservation (DOC) rules - public conservation land

Flying over public conservation land and waters requires extra care:

• Permit required: You must apply for and carry a DOC concession (permit) to fly a drone on or over conservation land or waters

• Specified areas only: Your permit covers only the approved location(s) - you must stick to those areas

• Wildlife protection:

  • Keep at least 100 m from wildlife when taking off or landing

  • Stay at least 50 m when flying near wildlife

  • For marine mammals (whales, dolphins, seals), keep at least 150 m horizontally away

  • Never hover directly over animals or cause distress

• High-use areas: Avoid flying over huts, campsites, carparks, picnic areas, or other busy places

• Obey DOC staff: If asked to stop, you must immediately comply

Helpful apps to download in New Zealand

• AirShare (NZ UAV Hub): The official NZ drone app. Shows airspace restrictions, lets you request authorisation, and log flights.

• DOC permit portal: Where you apply for concessions to fly on conservation land.

• Weather apps: MetService, Windy, or similar to check visibility, wind, and cloud cover before flying.

• Maps apps: Google Maps, satellite maps, or the AirShare interactive map to check terrain and no-fly zones.

• Drone brand apps: DJI Fly or similar for pre-flight checklists, telemetry, and logging.