Updated August 21, 2025
Civil Aviation Authority
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of New Zealand regulates unmanned aircraft systems throughout New Zealand airspace. CAA oversees drone registration, pilot certification, operational permits, and safety compliance under the Civil Aviation Act and associated regulations.
Regulator Overview
Basic information about Civil Aviation Authority
Full Name
Civil Aviation Authority
Jurisdiction
NZ
Alternative Names
CAA New Zealand, New Zealand CAA, CAA NZ
Notable Facts
Important information about drone regulations
Recreational operations under 25kg have minimal regulatory requirements
Commercial operations require pilot and operator certificates regardless of weight
Island geography requires special consideration for over-water operations
Growing use in agriculture, conservation, and search and rescue operations
Maori cultural sites may have traditional access restrictions
Environmental protection requirements for operations near marine sanctuaries
Unit Systems
Measurement units used in this regulator's jurisdiction
Weight
grams
Distance
meters
Altitude
meters
Speed
km/h
Regulations
Current regulations and frameworks for drone operations
| Title | Effective Date |
|---|---|
| Civil Aviation Rules Part 102REG-1 | July 31, 2015 |
| Civil Aviation Act 1990REG-2 | August 31, 1990 |
Official Resources
About this regulatory authority
Country
NZ
Region
National
Type
National
Updated
8/21/2025
Contact Information
How to reach Civil Aviation Authority
Last updated: 8/21/2025