Operating a Drone in New Zealand
In New Zealand, there is no distinction between personal and commercial drone users. However, there are specific rules that must be followed to allow for the safe use of drones.
The New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) governs the use of drones as they are considered “aircraft”. The use of small drones is regulated under Part 101 Rules. These are detailed below.
CAA Part 101 Rules
- Not operate an aircraft that is more than 25kg
- Minimise hazards to persons, property and other aircraft.
- Fly only in daylight.
- Give way to manned aircraft.
- Always make sure you have visual contact of your drone.
- Not fly your aircraft higher than 120 metres.
- Have knowledge of airspace restrictions that apply in the area you operate.
- Not fly closer than 4 kilometres of any airport/aerodrome.
- Obtain air traffic control clearance when flying in controlled airspace.
- Not fly in special-use airspace. (e.g. restricted operating areas)
- Have consent from anyone you want to fly above.
- Have consent from the property owner you want to fly above.
What is CAA Part 102?
In 2016, the CAA introduced “Part 102 Unmanned Aircraft Operating Certificates“. These were developed to allow professional drone operators to vary or change specific parts of Civil Aviation Rule 101 to aid them to go to work in a safe and efficient manner.
Many local councils, major businesses and film companies now require drone operators to hold a Part 102 Certificate as evidence that they are employing competent and legal operators to conduct aerial operations.
Helicam Pro were the first company in the South Island to be issued with a Part 102 Certificate.
Our CAA 102 Certificate allows us to:
- Fly with 4kms of an airport / aerodrome
- Fly at night
- Fly above 120m
- Fly over private property without consent of the property owner
Why hire a Part 102 drone operator?
The CAA recommends that you use a Part 102 Certificate holder to operate a drone to ensure a safe and professional operation without creating a hazard, especially in a commercial environment.
Helicam Pro has held a Part 102 Certificate since 2016. We carry full Aviation Insurance and $5 million dollars of Public Liability Insurance as required by local councils and government departments.
Under current health and safety legislation, when hiring a drone operator in a commercial environment, all employers (PCBU’s) must ensure the drone operator is trained in the safe use of all equipment in the employer’s workplace. Hiring a drone operator with a valid Part 102 Certificate and public liability insurance will ensure the drone operation will be safe and legal.