Drone Laws in New Zealand 2026: CAA Rules, Part 101 & Flight Restrictions

> Last updated: June 2026 | Jurisdiction: New Zealand (National) | Authority: Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA NZ) | Key law: Civil Aviation Rules Part 101 & Part 102

Quick-Reference Summary Table

Table of Contents

1. Who Regulates Drones in New Zealand?

2. Do You Need to Register Your Drone?

3. Part 101: Standard Drone Operating Rules

4. Part 102: Beyond Standard Operations

5. No-Fly Zones and Restricted Airspace

6. Shielded Operations: The 100-Metre Rule

7. DOC Conservation Land and National Parks

8. Maori Cultural Sites and Wahi Tapu

9. Volcanic and Geothermal Area Restrictions

10. Night Flying Rules

11. Insurance Requirements

12. Penalties and Enforcement

13. Real Enforcement Cases

14. Tourist and Visitor Guide

15. Tools, Apps, and Resources

16. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who Regulates Drones in New Zealand?

The Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA NZ) is the national regulator responsible for all civil aviation, including drones (referred to as unmanned aircraft or UA in New Zealand legislation). CAA NZ operates under the Civil Aviation Act 1990 and administers the Civil Aviation Rules, which contain the specific operational requirements for drone operators.

New Zealand's drone regulatory framework is built around two key rule parts:

• Part 101 -- Operating rules for unmanned aircraft (standard operations)
• Part 102 -- Certification for unmanned aircraft operators (beyond standard operations)

Key Regulatory Bodies

Regulatory History

New Zealand was one of the first countries to regulate commercial drone use, establishing its initial framework in 2015. In late 2024 and early 2025, updated civil aviation rules for drones came into effect, modernising the framework to address the rapid growth of the drone industry while maintaining safety standards.

Key Legislation

• Civil Aviation Act 1990 -- The primary legislation governing civil aviation in New Zealand
• Civil Aviation Rules Part 101 -- Operating rules for unmanned aircraft, gyrogliders, parasails, kites, and rockets
• Civil Aviation Rules Part 102 -- Certification requirements for unmanned aircraft operators seeking to operate beyond Part 101 limits
• Conservation Act 1987 -- Governs use of conservation land (relevant for DOC drone permit requirements)

2. Do You Need to Register Your Drone?

Current Status: No Mandatory Registration

As of June 2026, New Zealand does not have a mandatory drone registration system. CAA NZ has indicated that a formal registration system is expected in the future, but no implementation date has been announced.

AirShare Registration (Voluntary but Recommended)

While not legally mandated, all drone operators are strongly encouraged to register on the AirShare platform (airshare.co.nz). AirShare serves as New Zealand's hub for drone operators and provides:

• An operator ID that should be affixed to your drone
• Access to interactive airspace maps
• Flight logging and authorisation request tools
• Access to controlled airspace authorisation

AirShare has over 56,000 registered users and is the de facto standard for drone operator identification in New Zealand, even though registration is technically voluntary.

Comparison with Other Countries

New Zealand's lack of mandatory registration makes it one of the more accessible countries for drone operators, but this is expected to change in coming years as the regulatory framework evolves.

3. Part 101: Standard Drone Operating Rules

Part 101 of the Civil Aviation Rules contains the standard operating rules that apply to all drone operators in New Zealand -- both recreational and commercial. This is the foundation of New Zealand's drone regulatory framework.

Who Does Part 101 Apply To?

Part 101 applies to everyone operating an unmanned aircraft in New Zealand, regardless of whether the operation is recreational or commercial. This is a key difference from some other countries (like Australia), where recreational and commercial rules differ significantly.

Core Part 101 Rules

Consent Requirements

New Zealand places particular emphasis on consent, which distinguishes it from many other drone jurisdictions:

1. Property consent: You must get permission from the owner or occupier of any property you take off from or land on. This applies to both public and private land.

2. Person consent: You must get consent from any person you fly directly over. This means if someone is directly below your drone's flight path, you need their permission.

These consent requirements mean that simply being in a public space does not automatically grant you the right to fly your drone there.

Commercial Use Under Part 101

One of New Zealand's most distinctive regulatory features is that commercial drone operations are permitted under Part 101 without any additional certification, provided the operator stays within all Part 101 rules. This means you can earn money from drone work (photography, surveying, inspections) without a licence or certificate, as long as you follow all Part 101 rules.

4. Part 102: Beyond Standard Operations

Part 102 of the Civil Aviation Rules is for operators who need to exceed the limits set by Part 101. A Part 102 certificate provides formal approval from CAA NZ to conduct operations that would otherwise be prohibited.

When Do You Need Part 102?

You need a Part 102 certificate if you want to:

• Fly at night (beyond shielded operations)
• Operate beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS)
• Fly in controlled airspace without standard ATC clearance procedures
• Fly over people without individual consent
• Operate drones weighing 25 kg or more
• Conduct any operation that falls outside Part 101 limits

Part 102 Certificate Requirements

Part 102 Application Process

1. Determine scope -- Define exactly what operations you need to conduct beyond Part 101

2. Develop operations manual -- Create a comprehensive manual covering procedures, personnel, equipment, emergency procedures, and risk assessments

3. Submit application -- Apply to CAA NZ with all required documentation

4. CAA assessment -- CAA NZ reviews the application and may request additional information or amendments

5. Certificate issue -- If approved, CAA NZ issues a Part 102 certificate with specific conditions

Part 101 vs. Part 102 Comparison

5. No-Fly Zones and Restricted Airspace

New Zealand has several categories of restricted airspace and no-fly zones that drone operators must be aware of.

Aerodrome 4 km Rule

You must not fly within 4 km of any aerodrome (airport, airfield, or helipad) without authorisation. New Zealand has numerous aerodromes, including many small rural airfields and hospital helipads that may not be immediately obvious.

How to Get Airspace Authorisation

If you need to fly within 4 km of an aerodrome or in controlled airspace, you can request authorisation through:

1. AirShare app/website -- The primary tool for requesting access to controlled airspace in New Zealand

2. Airways New Zealand -- Direct contact for specific airspace requests

3. Aerodrome operators -- For uncontrolled aerodromes, contact the aerodrome operator directly

Shielded Operations Near Aerodromes

There is an important exception to the 4 km rule: shielded operations. If you are within 4 km of an aerodrome but flying a shielded operation (within 100 m of and below a structure), there must also be a physical barrier between your drone and the aerodrome that is capable of stopping your drone if it loses control. Examples include buildings or dense stands of trees.

Special Use Airspace

New Zealand has several categories of special use airspace that affect drone operations:

6. Shielded Operations: The 100-Metre Rule

One of the most distinctive and important features of New Zealand's drone rules is the concept of shielded operations. Understanding this concept can significantly expand where and when you can legally fly.

What Is a Shielded Operation?

A shielded operation is where your drone remains:

• Within 100 metres horizontally of a natural or man-made structure, AND
• Below the top of that structure

The structure can be a building, tower, tree canopy, cliff face, or any other natural or human-built object that provides a physical shield.

Why Shielded Operations Matter

Shielded operations provide significant regulatory advantages because several of Part 101's most restrictive rules have exceptions for shielded flights:

Practical Applications

Shielded operations are designed for scenarios like:

• Building inspections -- Inspecting the exterior of buildings while staying within 100 m and below roofline
• Stadium filming -- Filming under stadium lights while remaining below and within 100 m of the structure
• Urban surveying -- Operating near buildings in controlled airspace without requiring ATC clearance
• Infrastructure monitoring -- Inspecting bridges, towers, and other structures

Shielded Operation Requirements

Important Limitations

Shielded operations do not exempt you from:

• Visual line of sight requirements
• Consent requirements (property and people)
• The prohibition on careless or reckless operation
• Weight limits (under 25 kg for Part 101)

7. DOC Conservation Land and National Parks

The Department of Conservation (DOC) manages approximately one-third of New Zealand's total land area. Flying drones on DOC-managed land requires a permit, and the rules are strictly enforced.

DOC Drone Permit System

All aircraft operating on public conservation land need a DOC permit, also known as a concession. The DOC assesses each application to ensure it:

• Protects local wildlife
• Respects Maori cultural values
• Considers people's privacy
• Preserves the natural visitor experience

Three-Zone Classification System

DOC classifies conservation land into three zones based on how well drone use aligns with the Conservation Act 1987:

Types of DOC Drone Permits

National Parks with Strict Restrictions

Several of New Zealand's most popular national parks have very restrictive drone policies:

DOC Operating Conditions

If you are granted a DOC drone permit, you must comply with specific operating conditions, which typically include:

• Maximum altitude restrictions (often lower than the 120 m Part 101 limit)
• Specific flight times and areas
• Wildlife disturbance minimisation
• Noise reduction requirements
• Notification to DOC rangers before flying
• Insurance requirements (for commercial operations)

Penalties for Flying Without a DOC Permit

DOC actively enforces drone rules on conservation land:

8. Maori Cultural Sites and Wahi Tapu

New Zealand has a unique cultural dimension to drone regulation that operators must understand and respect. Maori cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with the land, and drone use near significant sites requires particular sensitivity.

Wahi Tapu (Sacred Sites)

Wahi Tapu are places sacred to Maori in the traditional, spiritual, religious, ritual, or mythological sense. Flying and filming/photography over Wahi Tapu sites is considered inappropriate and disrespectful.

Maori Cultural Considerations for Drone Operators

DOC Permit Process and Maori Consultation

The DOC drone permit process includes engagement with Maori:

1. Part of the permit assessment involves asking hapu and iwi (sub-tribal and tribal groups) to give their views on the cultural impact of the proposed drone operation

2. If the proposed flight area is near or over Wahi Tapu, the permit is unlikely to be granted

3. DOC staff can advise on local iwi contacts if consultation is needed

Maori-Owned Conservation Land

Some conservation land in New Zealand is owned by Maori tribes (iwi), which adds complexity to obtaining drone permission:

• Land tenure may be customary, freehold Maori, or Crown land co-managed with iwi
• Councils and DOC can liaise with local iwi or direct you to the appropriate authority
• Separate permission from iwi may be required in addition to any DOC permit

Best Practices

1. Research the cultural significance of any area before flying

2. Check with local iwi if you are unsure about cultural sensitivity

3. Do not assume public land is culturally neutral -- many public areas have deep Maori significance

4. Respect refusals -- if permission is not granted, do not fly

5. Be aware of place names -- Maori place names often indicate cultural significance (e.g., "Tapu" = sacred, "Waahi" = place)

9. Volcanic and Geothermal Area Restrictions

New Zealand's dramatic volcanic and geothermal landscapes are among its most photographed features, making them tempting targets for drone operators. However, significant restrictions apply.

Volcanic Hazard Zones

New Zealand's civil aviation rules include Volcanic Hazard Zone airspace classifications around active volcanic areas. These zones may impose altitude and access restrictions that go beyond standard Part 101 rules.

Key Restricted Volcanic/Geothermal Areas

Tongariro National Park: A Detailed Case

Tongariro National Park deserves special attention as it is New Zealand's oldest national park and one of the most popular tourist destinations:

• Drones are not generally allowed and applications are discouraged
• Helicopter operations take place almost daily in the park, creating significant collision risks
• The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with both natural and cultural significance
• Wahi Tapu sites throughout the park add cultural restrictions
• The Tongariro Alpine Crossing -- New Zealand's most popular day hike -- passes through areas where drones are prohibited

Safety Considerations

Flying drones near volcanic and geothermal areas presents unique safety risks:

• Volcanic gases (sulphur dioxide, hydrogen sulphide) can damage drone electronics
• Thermal updrafts from geothermal vents can destabilise drones
• Reduced visibility from steam and volcanic haze
• Electromagnetic interference from geothermal activity
• Rapid weather changes in mountainous volcanic terrain

10. Night Flying Rules

Part 101 Night Flying

Under Part 101, night flying is generally prohibited. The rules state that you must fly during daylight unless you are conducting a shielded operation in accordance with CAA advisory circulars.

Shielded Operations at Night

The primary exception to the night flying prohibition is the shielded operation. If you fly below the height of a nearby structure and within 100 metres of it, the flight counts as "shielded" and is permitted at night. This is designed for practical operations like:

• Building exterior inspections after dark
• Event filming under stadium lights
• Infrastructure monitoring in urban environments

Part 102 Night Flying

Operators with a Part 102 certificate can obtain approval for night operations beyond shielded flights. This requires:

• Specific night operation procedures in the operations manual
• A night rating as part of the Part 102 certificate
• Enhanced risk assessment for night operations
• Appropriate lighting equipment on the drone
• Additional crew training and competency requirements

Lighting Requirements for Night Operations

11. Insurance Requirements

Current Status: Recommended but Not Mandatory

As of June 2026, drone insurance is not legally required in New Zealand for either recreational or commercial operations. However, CAA NZ and industry professionals strongly recommend that all drone operators carry appropriate insurance.

Why Insurance Is Important in New Zealand

Types of Drone Insurance Available in New Zealand

Commercial Operators

While not legally mandated by CAA NZ, drone insurance is considered industry standard for commercial operators. Many clients, particularly in construction, infrastructure, and real estate, require proof of insurance before engaging a drone operator.

Recommended minimum public liability coverage for commercial operators in New Zealand is typically NZD $1-5 million, though some contracts may require higher amounts.

12. Penalties and Enforcement

CAA NZ has a range of enforcement tools available for dealing with drone violations, from informal warnings to criminal prosecution.

Penalty Structure

Common Violations and Typical Penalties

Enforcement Agencies

Incident Reporting Statistics

Drone incidents have been rising significantly in New Zealand:

This 54% increase from 2019 to 2024 reflects both growing drone popularity and increased awareness of reporting mechanisms.

13. Real Enforcement Cases

Understanding how New Zealand authorities enforce drone rules helps illustrate the real consequences of non-compliance.

Case 1: Auckland Airport Near-Miss

A recent near-miss between a passenger aircraft and a drone at Auckland Airport was serious enough to trigger investigation by the Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC). The incident prompted TAIC to call for stricter drone rules, and both Air New Zealand and the New Zealand Air Line Pilots' Association (NZALPA) lobbied for harsher punishment for reckless drone use near airports.

This case became a catalyst for regulatory discussion about increasing penalties and enforcement capabilities for airport-zone violations.

Case 2: Tongariro National Park Drone Seizure (2020)

In February 2020, DOC seized a tourist's drone in Tongariro National Park after the visitor flew without a permit. DOC issued a media release about the incident to raise awareness that:

• Drones of any size require a permit in national parks
• DOC rangers actively enforce drone rules
• Drones can be confiscated on the spot
• Both recreational and commercial flights require permission

This case was widely reported in New Zealand media and served as a public warning to both domestic and international drone operators.

Case 3: First Criminal Prosecution -- Drone vs. Paraglider (2020)

In a landmark case, a drone operator was convicted under Section 44 of the Civil Aviation Act after their drone collided with a paraglider. This was New Zealand's first criminal prosecution of a drone-related mid-air collision and established an important legal precedent that:

• Drone operators can face criminal charges for endangering other airspace users
• Section 44 of the Civil Aviation Act (operating an aircraft in a manner that creates unnecessary danger) applies to drone operations
• Collision with manned aircraft or other airspace users will be treated as a serious offence

Enforcement Trends

CAA NZ has signalled stronger enforcement in recent years, with:

• Higher penalty amounts being applied
• More frequent prosecutions for serious violations
• Increased collaboration between CAA, Police, DOC, and local councils
• Greater public awareness campaigns targeting common violations
• Industry lobbying (particularly from airlines and pilots' associations) for tougher penalties

14. Tourist and Visitor Guide

New Zealand is one of the world's most popular drone destinations, with its dramatic mountains, pristine coastlines, and cinematic landscapes attracting drone enthusiasts from around the globe.

Can Tourists Fly Drones in New Zealand?

Yes. International visitors can fly drones in New Zealand without registration, a licence, or a certificate, provided they follow all Part 101 rules. New Zealand is one of the most tourist-friendly countries for drone operations.

Before You Travel: Checklist

Airline Transport of Drones

When bringing drones to New Zealand by air:

• Drones should be carried in carry-on luggage due to lithium battery rules
• Batteries must be individually protected against short circuits
• Spare batteries should be in original packaging or with terminal covers
• Check your specific airline's policy (Air New Zealand, Qantas, etc.)
• Declare lithium batteries at check-in if required

Top Drone-Friendly Locations in New Zealand

New Zealand offers extraordinary drone filming opportunities, but many iconic locations have restrictions. Here are some of the more accessible spots:

Always verify the specific rules for any location before flying. Many of New Zealand's most iconic landscapes (Milford Sound, Tongariro, glaciers) are on DOC conservation land with strict permit requirements.

Tourist Mistakes to Avoid

1. Flying in national parks without a DOC permit -- This is the most common tourist violation and can result in drone confiscation

2. Ignoring the 4 km aerodrome rule -- New Zealand has many small airfields and helipads that may not be obvious

3. Not getting property consent -- You need permission from land owners/occupiers for takeoff and landing

4. Flying over people without consent -- Unlike some countries, NZ requires individual consent from people below your flight path

5. Assuming popular tourist spots are drone-friendly -- Many are on DOC land or have specific restrictions

6. Ignoring Maori cultural considerations -- Flying over Wahi Tapu or marae is inappropriate and may result in conflict

Tourist-Specific Tips

• Use AirShare -- Even as a tourist, the free AirShare registration and app are invaluable
• Ask locally -- Hotel staff, i-SITE visitor centres, and DOC offices can advise on local drone rules
• Early morning flights -- Fewer people means fewer consent issues and better light
• Respect the locals -- New Zealanders value their natural environment; be considerate
• Share responsibly -- Posting footage from restricted areas on social media can attract enforcement attention

15. Tools, Apps, and Resources

AirShare (New Zealand's Drone Hub)

AirShare is New Zealand's primary platform for drone operators, serving as the hub for airspace information, flight planning, and operator management.

Additional Recommended Resources

Official CAA NZ Resources

• CAA NZ Drones: [aviation.govt.nz/drones](https://www.aviation.govt.nz/drones/)
• Part 101 Rules: [aviation.govt.nz/drones/regulations/part-101-rules-for-drones](https://www.aviation.govt.nz/drones/regulations/part-101-rules-for-drones/)
• Part 102 Certification: [aviation.govt.nz/drones/regulations/part-102-certification-for-drones](https://www.aviation.govt.nz/drones/regulations/part-102-certification-for-drones/)
• Part 101 Full Rules: [aviation.govt.nz/rules/rule-part/part-101](https://www.aviation.govt.nz/rules/rule-part/part-101/)

DOC Resources

• Drone Permits Overview: [doc.govt.nz/get-involved/apply-for-permits/all-permissions/drone-use-on-conservation-land](https://www.doc.govt.nz/get-involved/apply-for-permits/all-permissions/drone-use-on-conservation-land/)
• Recreational Drone Permit: [doc.govt.nz/get-involved/apply-for-permits/all-permissions/drone-use-on-conservation-land/recreational-drone-use](https://www.doc.govt.nz/get-involved/apply-for-permits/all-permissions/drone-use-on-conservation-land/recreational-drone-use/)
• Commercial Drone Permit: [doc.govt.nz/get-involved/apply-for-permits/all-permissions/drone-use-on-conservation-land/commercial-drone-use](https://www.doc.govt.nz/get-involved/apply-for-permits/all-permissions/drone-use-on-conservation-land/commercial-drone-use/)
• Drone Operating Conditions: [doc.govt.nz/get-involved/apply-for-permits/all-permissions/drone-use-on-conservation-land/drone-operating-conditions](https://www.doc.govt.nz/get-involved/apply-for-permits/all-permissions/drone-use-on-conservation-land/drone-operating-conditions/)

16. Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to fly a drone in New Zealand?

No. New Zealand does not require a licence for drone operations under Part 101, whether recreational or commercial. This applies to drones under 25 kg operating within all Part 101 rules. If you need to exceed Part 101 limits, you will need a Part 102 certificate.

Do I need to register my drone in New Zealand?

No, not as of June 2026. There is no mandatory drone registration system in New Zealand. However, you are strongly encouraged to register on the AirShare platform (free), which provides an operator ID, airspace maps, and the ability to request airspace authorisation.

Can I use my drone commercially without a licence?

Yes. This is one of New Zealand's most distinctive regulatory features. Commercial drone operations are permitted under Part 101 without any additional licence or certificate, provided you follow all Part 101 rules. You only need a Part 102 certificate if your commercial operations require exceeding Part 101 limits.

Can I fly at night in New Zealand?

Only under specific conditions. Under Part 101, night flying is permitted only for shielded operations (within 100 m of and below a structure). For other night operations, you need a Part 102 certificate with specific night flying approval.

Can I fly my drone in New Zealand national parks?

Only with a DOC permit. All drone use on conservation land (including national parks, reserves, and forest parks) requires a permit from the Department of Conservation. DOC classifies land into green, orange, and red zones based on compatibility with drone use. Some popular national parks (Tongariro, Fiordland) rarely grant recreational drone permits. Flying without a permit can result in fines and drone confiscation.

What is a "shielded operation"?

A shielded operation is where your drone stays within 100 metres horizontally of, and below the top of, a natural or man-made structure (building, tower, trees). Shielded operations have special exceptions under Part 101: they are allowed at night, do not require ATC clearance in controlled airspace, and may operate within 4 km of aerodromes (with a physical barrier). This is designed for operations like building inspections and urban surveying.

Do I need consent to fly over someone?

Yes. New Zealand requires you to get consent from any person you fly directly above. This is stricter than many other countries and means you cannot simply fly over people in public spaces without their individual permission.

Do I need the landowner's permission to take off?

Yes. You must get consent from the owner or occupier of any property you take off from or land on. This applies to both public and private land. For public land, check with the relevant council or land manager.

What are the penalties for flying illegally?

Fines range from NZD $500 for minor offences to NZD $5,000 for individuals and NZD $30,000 for companies for drone-specific violations. Under general aviation rules, fines can reach NZD $9,000 for individuals and NZD $90,000 for companies. Criminal charges are possible for serious offences like endangering aircraft. On DOC land, infringement notices range from NZD $300-$800, and your drone may be confiscated.

Is drone insurance required?

No. Drone insurance is not legally required in New Zealand. However, it is strongly recommended by CAA NZ and industry professionals. Commercial operators should carry public liability insurance as an industry standard.

What is the AirShare app?

AirShare is New Zealand's primary platform for drone operators. It is free and provides interactive airspace maps, flight logging, operator registration, and the ability to request airspace authorisation for controlled airspace and aerodrome zones. It has over 56,000 registered users and is available as a mobile app and website.

Is Remote ID required in New Zealand?

Not yet. As of June 2026, Remote ID has not been implemented in New Zealand. CAA NZ is monitoring international developments, but no implementation timeline has been announced.

Can I fly my drone near Milford Sound?

Generally no, not without a DOC permit. Milford Sound is within Fiordland National Park, which is DOC conservation land with strict drone restrictions. Helicopter and scenic flight operations are frequent in the area, adding additional safety concerns. Commercial filming permits may be available through DOC, but recreational permits are rarely granted.

How does New Zealand compare to Australia for drone flying?

New Zealand is generally considered more tourist-friendly for drone operations than Australia, particularly because:

• No registration required (vs. Australia's commercial registration)
• Commercial use permitted under Part 101 without a licence (vs. Australia's RePL/ReOC system)
• Clear shielded operations framework for night flying and controlled airspace
• However, DOC conservation land rules are strict and cover about one-third of the country

Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Drone regulations can change at any time. Always check the latest rules on the official CAA NZ website (aviation.govt.nz), AirShare (airshare.co.nz), and DOC (doc.govt.nz) before flying. MmowW makes every effort to keep this information current but cannot guarantee absolute accuracy at the time of reading. When in doubt, contact CAA NZ directly or consult a qualified aviation law professional.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Do I need a licence to fly a drone in New Zealand?

A: No. New Zealand does not require a licence for drone operations under Part 101, whether recreational or commercial. This applies to drones under 25 kg operating within all Part 101 rules. If you need to exceed Part 101 limits (night flying beyond shielded operations, BVLOS, over 25 kg), you need a Part 102 certificate.

Q2: Do I need to register my drone in New Zealand?

A: No, not as of June 2026. There is no mandatory drone registration system in New Zealand. However, you are strongly encouraged to register on AirShare (free), which provides an operator ID, airspace maps, and controlled airspace authorisation tools. Over 56,000 operators are registered.

Q3: Can I use my drone commercially without a licence?

A: Yes. This is one of New Zealand's most distinctive features. Commercial drone operations are permitted under Part 101 without any additional licence or certificate, provided you follow all Part 101 rules (VLOS, 120 m, daylight, consent, etc.). You only need a Part 102 certificate if your operations exceed Part 101 limits.

Q4: Can I fly a drone in New Zealand national parks?

A: Only with a DOC permit. All drone use on conservation land (including national parks, reserves, and forest parks) requires a permit from the Department of Conservation. DOC classifies land into green, orange, and red zones. Popular parks like Tongariro and Fiordland rarely grant recreational drone permits. Flying without a permit can result in fines and drone confiscation.

Q5: What is a "shielded operation"?

A: A shielded operation is where your drone stays within 100 metres horizontally of, and below the top of, a natural or man-made structure (building, tower, trees). Shielded operations have special Part 101 exceptions: they are allowed at night, do not require ATC clearance in controlled airspace, and may operate within 4 km of aerodromes (with a physical barrier).

Q6: Do I need consent to fly over someone?

A: Yes. New Zealand requires you to get consent from any person you fly directly above. This is stricter than many other countries and means you cannot fly over people in public spaces without their individual permission. You also need consent from the land owner or occupier for takeoff and landing.

Q7: Can I fly a drone at night?

A: Only under specific conditions. Under Part 101, night flying is permitted only for shielded operations (within 100 m of and below a structure). For other night operations, you need a Part 102 certificate with specific night flying approval and appropriate lighting equipment.

Q8: What are the penalties for flying illegally?

A: Fines range from NZD $500 for minor offences to NZD $5,000 for individuals and NZD $30,000 for companies under drone-specific rules. Under general aviation rules, fines can reach NZD $9,000 for individuals and NZD $90,000 for companies. Criminal charges are possible for serious offences. On DOC land, infringement notices range from NZD $300-$800 and your drone may be confiscated.

Q9: Can tourists fly drones in New Zealand?

A: Yes. International visitors can fly drones without registration, licence, or certificate, provided they follow all Part 101 rules. Register on AirShare (free) for airspace maps and authorisation tools. Be aware that many popular tourist destinations are on DOC conservation land with strict permit requirements.

Q10: Can I fly near Milford Sound or Tongariro?

A: Generally no without a DOC permit. Milford Sound is within Fiordland National Park and Tongariro is its own national park -- both have strict drone restrictions. Helicopter operations are frequent in both areas, adding safety concerns. Commercial filming permits may be available through DOC, but recreational permits are rarely granted.

Q11: What about Maori cultural sites?

A: Flying over Wahi Tapu (sacred sites), marae (meeting grounds), or other culturally significant Maori sites is considered inappropriate and disrespectful. The DOC permit process includes consultation with local iwi (tribal groups) about cultural impact. Check with local iwi if you are unsure about cultural sensitivity in an area.

Q12: Is Remote ID required in New Zealand?

A: Not yet. As of June 2026, Remote ID has not been implemented in New Zealand. CAA NZ is monitoring international developments, but no implementation timeline has been announced.

Q13: Is drone insurance required?

A: No. Drone insurance is not legally required in New Zealand. However, it is strongly recommended. New Zealand's liability framework means you are responsible for damage caused by your drone. Commercial operators typically carry NZD $1-5 million in public liability coverage as an industry standard.

Q14: What is AirShare?

A: AirShare (airshare.co.nz) is New Zealand's primary platform for drone operators. It provides interactive airspace maps, flight logging, operator registration, and the ability to request airspace authorisation. It has over 56,000 registered users and is free. Available as a mobile app and website.

Q15: How does New Zealand compare to Australia for drone flying?

A: New Zealand is generally more tourist-friendly: no registration required (vs Australia's commercial registration), commercial use permitted under Part 101 without a licence (vs Australia's RePL/ReOC system), and a clear shielded operations framework for night flying and controlled airspace. However, DOC conservation land rules are strict and cover about one-third of the country.

How New Zealand Compares to Other Countries

See how New Zealand's drone laws stack up against 9 other countries in our 10-Country Drone Law Comparison Table. Key differences include registration thresholds, penalty severity, and insurance requirements.

About the Author

This guide is produced by MmowW, built by Sawai Gyoseishoshi Office (さわい行政書士事務所). As a licensed Japanese administrative law specialist (行政書士), we bring regulatory expertise to drone compliance across 10 countries. Our automated compliance platform helps operators stay legal wherever they fly.

Credentials: Licensed Gyoseishoshi (行政書士) under the Gyoseishoshi Act of Japan | Multi-country drone regulation specialist | MmowW Drone SaaS developer

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*Published on mmoww.net | Last updated: June 2026*