New Zealand Drone License Guide
How to get your Part 101 (rule-based) / Part 102 (certified operator) — issued by Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand. Cost, exam format, altitude limits, and renewal — all up to date for 2026.
Key data at a glance
| Total cost | Part 101 Wings ~NZD $500. Part 102 application + audit NZD $5,000–$15,000. |
| Renewal cycle | Part 102 reviewed annually by CAA |
| License classes | 3 categories |
| Maximum altitude | 400 ft AGL |
| BVLOS allowed (standard) | Yes (under specific approval) |
| Remote ID required | No |
| Minimum age | 16 years |
| Exam format | Part 101: optional Wings certificate (Massey University, Aviation NZ). Part 102: theory + practical assessment + Operations Manual sign-off by CAA inspector. |
CAA NZ drone classes / categories
Part 101 Sub-25kg
MTOM < 25 kgNo licence if compliant with the rule (VLOS, daylight, < 400 ft, etc.)
Part 101 Pilot Cert.
MTOM < 25 kgRecommended Wings or equivalent training for commercial Part 101 work
Part 102 Operator
MTOM anyBVLOS, > 25 kg, urban, autonomous → certified Operations Manual
Operational limits
- Part 101 covers most hobby + commercial sub-25 kg VLOS operations without an explicit licence
- Always > 4 km from aerodromes unless ATC permission
- VLOS, daylight, no flight over people without consent
- BVLOS, large drones, urban or autonomous → Part 102 required
- Part 102 requires Operations Manual, training records, and CAA-approved competency
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New Zealand drone license — frequently asked questions
Do I need a drone licence in New Zealand?
Not for hobby or basic commercial use under Part 101 if you comply with the rule (sub-25 kg, VLOS, daylight, < 400 ft, > 4 km from aerodromes). Commercial use over Part 101 limits requires Part 102.
What is Part 102?
CAA NZ's certified operator framework for any drone activity outside Part 101 — BVLOS, > 25 kg, autonomous, urban, etc. Requires a full Operations Manual and CAA approval.
Is the New Zealand Wings certificate mandatory?
No — but most insurers and clients require it for commercial Part 101 ops. Massey University and Aviation NZ deliver popular Wings courses.
Are Part 102 certificates internationally recognised?
Some Pacific jurisdictions accept Part 102 evidence as competence proof, but most authorities require their own licensing. The Operations Manual itself can transfer with adaptation.
How long does Part 102 certification take?
Typically 3–6 months including Operations Manual drafting, CAA review, and on-site audit. Costs NZD $5,000–$15,000 plus internal staff time.
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