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Drone Flight Calculator

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Updated December 5, 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 of New Zealand

Established

1992

Type

National 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 (g)

Distance

Meters (m)

Altitude

Meters (m)

Speed

metric

Regulations

Current regulations and frameworks for drone operations

TitleEffective Date
Civil Aviation Rules Part 102REG-1August 1, 2015
Civil Aviation Act 1990REG-2September 1, 1990

Official Resources

About this regulatory authority

Country

NZ

Region

National

Type

National Aviation Authority

Updated

12/5/2025

Contact Information

How to reach Civil Aviation Authority

www.aviation.govt.nz/drones/
Last updated: December 5, 2025