General Etiquette When Flying Your Drone in New Zealand

If you’re planning to fly a drone anywhere in New Zealand, there are two steps you’ll want to cover straight away:

• Learn how to fly a drone
• Learn drone flying etiquette

While drone flying courses train you on proper flight techniques and rules, drone etiquette is more about expected behaviours than formal regulations. Not sure where to get started? No worries. This list of 5 tips will get you ready for confidently flying your drone in New Zealand in no time. 

1. Ask if you can bring your drone first.

Nothing is worse than an uninvited party guest, especially when it’s hovering above you. Before you embark on your next great flight, be sure to get permission from land owners or event organisers if your aircraft will be over private property. If you plan to take photos or videos with your drone, then you need to let those parties know as well. If your request is denied, then absolutely do not attempt to take flight anyway. You could face fines as well as a horrible reputation. 

2. Choose open areas rather than over crowds of people.

It’s not just that flying objects can be a nuisance to groups of people, but they can also be a source of danger if they were to fall and crash into something—or someone. In fact, sports games and large gatherings are no-fly zones in NZ. And obviously, any damage caused by your drone can leave you open to penalties. Rather than risk the fines or being an annoyance over family weddings, choose a location to fly your drone in one of New Zealand’s many open areas, such as a national park. 

3. Fly sober or it’s over.

There is nothing good that can come of mixing alcohol and expensive equipment, especially with the inherent risks to property and human and animal life. Plus, it’s actually illegal to fly your drone in New Zealand while under the influence of alcohol. It’s considered a serious violation and could result in legal consequences.

4. Make room for others.

There is plenty of approved airspace in NZ for drones, so there’s no reason any pilot needs to feel crowded. Instead of getting frustrated with others in your preferred location, make a backup plan including alternate destinations you’ll find just as exciting. And, if someone happens to crowd your space, either let them know of some of your other favourite spots (hint, hint) or let them know you would be happy to make room for them as soon as you’re finished.

5. Keep children and pets clear of your flight path.

Drones can be fascinating to kids and animals, but it’s very important to keep them away from your aircraft—especially as it’s coming in for a landing. It can be quite tempting for pets and small children to want to grab onto the drone, but it can quickly turn into a dangerous situation of sharp blades and injuries. Instead, make sure your flight path is clear before take off and, if someone or something does happen to make an appearance, then wait until the coast is clear before landing your drone.  

Take your drone etiquette to the skies

Now that you understand these tips for drone etiquette, you’re ready to go flying in New Zealand. Remember, pilots are responsible for more than their aircraft; they’re also accountable to anything that occurs as a result of their flights. 

Need a little more assurance before taking flight? Take our quiz to see which online drone course is right for you.