New Zealand's landscapes are a dream for aerial photography and drones can capture perspectives few cameras can match. However, before you launch your drone into our skies, there are important things you need to keep in mind.
Firstly, your drone is an aircraft. That means it can be a hazard to people, property, and other aircraft. Even if you consider it just a fun toy, you must follow New Zealand Civil Aviation Rules.
The Civil Aviation Authority website has a page dedicated to drones, so read it carefully before you fly.
Drone rules – Share the skies
Consider others, be responsible:
- Don't fly directly over people, unless they say it’s okay.
- Don't fly over property, unless the owner says it's okay.
- To fly over public property such as parks, reserves, or conservation land, you need consent from the local council or the Department of Conservation.
- Fly no higher than 120 metres (400 feet) above the ground.
- Stay a safe and considerate distance away from people and buildings.
- Keep your drone in sight at all times.
- Stay 4km away from anywhere aircraft are landing or taking off.
- It's dangerous to fly drones anywhere other aircraft are operating.
Drones and airports do not mix. Flying a drone near an airport or in controlled airspace can endanger lives and disrupt flights. Offenders could be prosecuted.
To plan a safe flight and learn more about flying near an aerodrome, have a look at the AirShare website. It also has a special information section for tourists and allows you to download the AirShare app, which you can use to discover where you can fly your drone in New Zealand skies.
Please note that flying a drone from the Crown Range lookout is not permitted, as it is controlled airspace close to the main flight path into Queenstown Airport.
Report unsafe flying
If a drone presents an immediate danger, call 111 and ask for the Police.
To report a rule breach, contact the Civil Aviation Authority.