Contact us

What is the main phone number for the Civil Aviation Authority?

The main contact number for CAA is 04 560 9400. This single number provides access to all our departments and services through an interactive voice menu system.

What are your business hours?

Our general business hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm, excluding public holidays. Some departments have slightly different hours:

• Regional Aviation Security Service offices: Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm
• Airport Identity Card helpdesk: Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 4:00pm
• Hamilton Aviation Security: 24 hours, 7 days a week

Can I call outside business hours?

Yes, you can call anytime. Outside business hours, you'll be directed to leave a voicemail with your contact details, and we'll return your call during the next business day.

What should I do if I'm calling about an aviation emergency or accident?

If you're calling about an aviation accident, or emergency:

1. Hang up immediately
2. Dial 111

I had an item removed from my checked luggage at airport security. How do I get it back?

For items removed from checked-in luggage:

Within 24 hours of your flight: Visit Items removed during screening for guidance. CAA retains items for 24 hours before relinquishing them to the airline.

After 24 hours: Contact the airline you flew with directly. The airline will have information about your item once it's been transferred to them.

Your baggage claim form will list the airline contact information you need.

How do I navigate the phone menu?

After calling 04 560 9400, you'll hear a greeting followed by menu options. Listen to the full menu, then press the number corresponding to your query:

Main menu options:

• Press 1 – Aircraft Registration, certification and monitoring, or security regulation
• Press 2 – Medical or Licensing
• Press 3 – Finance
• Press 4 – Aviation Security Service (regional airport offices)
• Press 5 – Aeronautical Services (airspace, aerodromes, air traffic control, etc.)
• Press 6 – Emerging Technology team
• Press 7 – Airport Identity Card helpdesk
• Press 0 – Speak with an operator for other queries
• Press * (star key) – Repeat the menu options

Can I go back to the main menu if I select the wrong option?

Yes! Most submenus include an option to press 9 to return to the main menu, or press * (star key) to repeat the current menu options.

Can I email instead of calling?

Yes! You can email us at:

• General enquiries: info@caa.govt.nz
• Finance: Finance@caa.govt.nz
• Emerging Technologies: emergingtech@caa.govt.nz

Email responses typically take 1-2 business days.

Further questions

We have more specific questions answered here:

Phone system FAQs [PDF 353 KB]