Drones, UAV and RPA's
Where can I fly my Drone?
To fly in any park and reserve in the Tararua District, you will need authorisation from Council.
Application for consent to operate a remotely piloted aircraft system on Council-controlled land.
Please note any operator of a UAV, drone or remotely piloted aircraft system must:
- comply with all rules and regulations applicable to the operation of a remotely piloted aircraft system (including Part 101 of the Civil Aviation Rules and any other applicable rules or any rules and regulations amending or replacing the same);
- comply with the Privacy Commissioner guidelines relating to preserving peoples personal privacy when using a remotely piloted aircraft system;
- not operate the remotely piloted aircraft system within 10 metres of any residential boundaries and buildings;
- not operate the remotely piloted aircraft system within 12 metres of any overhead power or telecommunication cables;
- not fly the remotely piloted aircraft system within 10 metres of any other users of the land it is being operated on;
- not operate the remotely piloted aircraft system within 10 metres of or over any buildings or structures on the land it is being operated on;
- only operate the remotely piloted aircraft system over the land authorised at all times and not over any road or roadway;
- ensure that all safety features (which shall include rotor guards on drones) are installed and maintained while in use; and
- cease operation if requested to do so by a Council staff member or representative.
Please ensure that you are familiar with the controlled airspace’s in the Tararua District on the Airshare Map.
Controlled/Restricted Airspace Map
Please note that the Dannevirke Aerodrome is in close proximity to the township and therefore, it is important you understand the controlled and restricted CAA rules
The Civil Aviation Autority (CAA) works to make sure everyone involved in New Zealand aviation meets the legal standards set by the Minister of Transport. The CAA sets out rules and regulations for operating drones in restricted or controlled airspaces. Its is important you abide by these rules and regulations or you may face a fine.
For the latest rules please head over to the CAA official website.
Civil Aviation Authority Website
If you want to fly over privately owned property, you need the property owner's permission.
Application for Landowner/occupier consent to operate remote piloted aerial system over land (Hyper Link)
The Civil Aviation Authority designates controlled airspace on some parts of the Tararua District. In these areas you can only fly UAVs below the height of a nearby tree or structure, no further than 100m away.
Please ensure that you are familiar with the controlled airspace’s in the Tararua District on the Airshare Map.
Controlled/Restricted Airspace Map
In uncontrolled airspace, you can only fly UAVs up to a height of 120m, but please consider the safety and proximity of your drone to crowds.
To fly over conservation lands and waters, you need a concession or authorisation from the Department of Conservation.