Flying your drone safely

Consider others. Be responsible.

This summary is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute a full reading of the Civil Aviation Rules. Please ensure you read the complete rules to understand all requirements and obligations.

Download brochure: Flying your drone and other unmanned aircraft safely [PDF 8.4 MB]

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If you fly these types of aircraft, you’re a pilot

Officially called unmanned aircraft, but more commonly known as drones. They range from the familiar four-bladed drones you can buy from a shop to much larger radio-controlled model aircraft that are carefully built from scratch over many hours.

Launching an unmanned aircraft from your backyard without proper care can put people flying in manned aircraft and those on the ground at risk, and may also break aviation rules.

The civil aviation rules relating to drones and model aircraft are called ‘Part 101’. Everyone must fly according to those rules and associated transport instruments – including you.

Intro to Part 101

Intro to Part 102

CATI 101-1 [PDF 194 KB]

Training

Get some training to help you fly safely and legally.

Getting an unmanned aircraft pilot qualification forms part of the requirements to fly less than 4km from an aerodrome.

Training is also required if you intend to fly at night. For more details, refer to Advisory Circular AC101-1.

Find more information about training and a list of approved training organisations, at:

Training to fly drones

Consider others, be responsible

Always keep a respectful – and safe – distance from people and property.

	Don't fly directly over people Unless they say it's ok.
	Don’t fly over property Unless the owner says it’s OK. That includes houses, farms, land, private lakes, boats, and vehicles. If it’s public property such as parks, reserves, some beaches, national parks, and other public conservation land, get consent from your local council or the Department of Conservation.
	Don’t fly within 4km of an aerodrome Unless you have met all the requirements, including getting aerodrome operator authorisation and holding an approved pilot qualification.
	Stay a safe and considerate distance away From people and buildings.
	Keep it in sight at all times You must always be able to see your aircraft with your own eyes. Only fly when the visibility is good – stay clear of fog and cloud.2
	Fly no higher than 120m (400ft) above the ground This keeps your aircraft below the height of most other manned aircraft.

Can you fly here?

There is certain airspace where drones must never be flown, and other areas where there are strict conditions. These areas include:

	Low flying zones		Aerodromes (including airports)
	Danger areas		Controlled airspace (air traffic control zones)
	Military operating areas		Restricted areas

You must never fly in these areas You must ensure the hazard will not be unsafe to your flight You must get permission before flying in these areas

See Check the airspace before you fly for more information, including examples and advice on identifying different airspace areas.

To see a map of these areas, or to apply for a clearance to fly your drone within controlled airspace, visit the AirShare website:

airshare.co.nz(external link)

Can you fly shielded?

A shielded operation allows an operator to fly an RPA near a vertical object(such as trees, buildings, pylons etc) with reduced risk to other aviation participants. Shielded operations can take palce within controlled airspace and within 4km of an aerodrome (but outside its boundary), provided that distance and height criteria specified in CATI 101-1 is adhered to. For additional information, please see AC101-1.

CATI 101-1 [PDF 194 KB]

Your drone questions answered

Preflight checklist

Like any pilot, you need to do a preflight check.

	Check the tech Make sure the battery is fully charged and all components are secure and undamaged.
	Scan the land Your flying area must be clear of people, animals, or anything that might cause problems, such as powerlines. Get permission if you plan to fly over people or property, or stay well away.
	Eyes on the aircraft You must always be able to see your aircraft. Fly it no higher than 120m (400ft) above ground level, avoiding cloud or fog.1
	Can you fly here? There are certain areas you can’t fly a drone, or where you need authorisation. Know where you’re allowed to fly, and where you need to ask for clearance first.
	Respect right of way Give way to, and remain clear of, all manned aircraft on the ground and in flight. If you see an aircraft near you, it may be safest to land.

More information about flying your drone safely

These are just a snapshot of the rules. For the full rules, see:

Drone regulations

Part 101 Gyrogliders and Parasails, Unmanned Aircraft (including Balloons), Kites, and Rockets Operating Rules

Part 102 Unmanned Aircraft Operator Certification

CATI 101-1 [PDF 194 KB]

Be aware if you breach New Zealand civil aviation rules while flying your drone you could face disciplinary action including prosecution.

Want to know more or find this confusing? Consider getting some training to improve your skills and ensure you fly safely and legally. See training to fly drones to find a list of approved training organisations.

See Safety education publications for more educational publications, including more detailed guides on airspace.

 

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Footnotes

¹ There are some exceptions to this – check the rules for more about flying a drone beyond your line of sight, and about flying at night.

² There are some exceptions to this – check the rules for more about flying a drone beyond your line of sight, and about flying at night.