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Drone Laws and Regulations in New Zealand

Find out whether you are allowed to fly your drone in New Zealand and what

rules apply or whether it is prohibited in general. We do not assume any liability.

 

If you find outdated or wrong information or if you want to submit the drone regulations for countries that are currently not listed, feel free to contact us here.

RECREATIONAL DRONE PILOTS (HOBBYISTS)

Is private drone flying allowed in New Zealand?

Yes, but you need to apply to the rules listed below.

A special permission is not required.

Maximum Height

Max. 120m / 400ft

> 120m / 400ft approval required

Maximum Distance

None, but must be kept in line-of-sight of the operator at all times

unless approval for beyond line-of-sight has been given

Maximum Take-Off Weight

25kg / 55lbs

Competence Statement / License

Not required;

Day Times

Day time operations only unless approval has been given

Labelling Requirements

Not required, but recommended

Drone Liability Insurance

Not required, but highly recommended

COMMERCIAL DRONE PILOTS (PROFESSIONALS)

Is commercial drone flying allowed in New Zealand?

Yes, but you need to apply to the rules listed below.

A special permission is not required.

Max. 120m / 400ft

> 120m / 400ft approval required

Maximum Height

Maximum Distance

None, but must be kept in line-of-sight of the operator at all times

unless approval for beyond line-of-sight has been given

Not required, but recommended

Labelling Requirements

Maximum Take-Off Weight

25kg / 55lbs

Day time operations only unless approval has been given

Day Times

Drone Liability Insurance

Not required, but highly recommended

Not required

Competence Statement / License

Drone Ban Zones

State institutes

Federal authority constructions

Regional authority constructions

Airport control zones (CTR)

National Parks

Crowds

Private Property (only with permission of the owner)

Hospitals

Operation sites of police, military, search- and rescue forces

You must always yield right of way to manned aircraft!

FOR DJI DRONES ONLY!

Please note that there are several constant and temporary drone ban zones (known as no-fly-zones) that either won't let your drone take-off at all or that will ask for a permission of yours.

Please click at both graphics to spot all blocked / restricted areas near your desired flying location.

Additional links and important email addresses

Check out more drone laws and regulations.

Click here or at the image to see all listed countries.

Or submit the regulations of your country right here.

READ THE DRONE BLOG!

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