Guidance for Operating Your Drone Safely
Most people will have heard about UAV’s or drones (officially RPAS) and many know of the existence of regulations here in New Zealand, but few know exactly what the rules are and who they apply to.
Two websites offer particularly helpful information for users of UAVs or RPAS:
www.caa.govt.nz/rpas/
This is the dedicated webpage of Civil Aviation, the controlling authority. Information about Parts to Civil Aviation Rules that relate directly to RPAS are:
- Part 101 Gyrogliders and Parasails, Unmanned Aircraft (including Balloons), Kites, and Rockets – Operating Rules, and
- Part 102 Unmanned Aircraft Operator Certification.
Operators of RPAS also need to be aware of other rules that affect them, for example Part 91 General Operating and Flight Rules.
www.airshare.co.nz
Airshare acts as a UAV hub for New Zealand. It has information including how to operate your drone safely, plan all your UAV flights, and request access to controlled airspace.
You can find maps on the site showing where you can and cannot fly your UAV
NOTE The information contained on Airshare is not to be relied on as a substitute for a comprehensive knowledge of the relevant rules and regulations that apply to the operation of UAVs. It is the UAV operator’s responsibility to read, understand and operate any UAVs in accordance with the Civil Aviation Rules.