FAQs

What is a drone?

A drone, also known as Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and including Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) - can be remotely piloted or fly autonomously.

Why does Council have a drone policy?

While national aviation rules are set by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Council is responsible for how drones are used on Council-owned land, such as:

• Parks and reserves
• Recreational spaces
• Council facilities
• Council controlled roads (local roads)

The policy helps manage safety, privacy, and shared use of public spaces.

Please note this Policy is applicable for Council administered land. The CAA rules cover the use of drones over public and private property.

Why is Council reviewing the current drone policy?

Council has reviewed the 2023 policy to:

• Make the rules clearer and easier to understand
• Respond to increased drone use
• Improve public safety and privacy
• Ensure the policy reflects current aviation requirements

Council is now seeking community feedback before adopting the updated 2026 policy.

What is Council proposing to do?

Council is proposing to:

• Adopt the Waitomo District Council Drone Policy 2026
• Revoke and replace the existing Use of RPAS (Drones) Policy 2023
   

What are the key changes in the 2026 policy?

The following key changes have been made to provide more clarity and make the policy more user friendly:

• Clearer descriptions of when drone use is permitted
• Updated prohibited areas, including parks and recreational spaces, for safety and privacy reasons
• Updated criteria for approving drone use on Council land
• Clarifying rules for flying near aerodromes and heliports in the District
• Updated map showing where drone use is restricted
• Minor editorial changes to improve readability and accuracy
   

Are national drone rules changing?

No. National drone rules are set by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and are not affected by this consultation.

All drone users must continue to comply with CAA Part 101 rules, regardless of Council policy.

What are the basic drone rules in New Zealand?

In simple terms, drone users must:

• Fly below 120 metres
• Fly during daylight only
• Keep the drone in sight at all times
• Stay at least 4 km away from airports and heliports
• Not fly over people or private property without permission

Give way to all manned aircraft

For a complete list and explanation of the rules, visit either the AirShare website or the Civil Aviation website.

Does Council’s policy mean drones are banned everywhere?

No.
The policy focuses on where and how drones can be used on Council land. Some areas may be restricted, while others may allow drone use with or without approval.

Council does not allow the use of drones on or above the following Council properties: 

• WDC Queen Street Office
• Waitomo District Library
• WDC Customer Service Centre
• Te Kūiti Railway Building Complex and Plaza area
• Waitomo District Water and Wastewater Treatment Plants
• Waitomo District Landfill and all Transfer Stations
• Waitomo District Council Cemeteries
• Les Munro Centre and adjoining Cenotaph Memorial Garden
• Piopio Memorial Hall
• Redwood Flats Elder Persons Housing
• Senior Citizens Hall, Te Kūiti
• Waitomo District Aquatic Centre
• Waitomo District Pound
• Parks, playgrounds and recreation areas 

Note: This does not apply to the use of drones by Council or its employees, contractors, emergency services or other authorised persons.

In some cases, drones may be flown under CAA rules as a shielded operation — meaning the drone is kept close to a structure and operated in a way that reduces risk to people and aircraft.

What this means in practice, and whether it is appropriate on Council-managed land, depends on the location and circumstances. Check out this video for more details.

What is a Shielded Operation?

A shielded operation is a type of drone flight defined by the CAA, where a drone is flown close to a structure (such as a building or trees) in a way that limits exposure to people and other aircraft. Shielded operations must still meet CAA requirements and may be subject to Council rules when flown on Council-managed land.

More guidance on shielded operations can be found in Advisory Circular AC101-1.

Why are parks and recreational spaces included as prohibited areas?

Parks and recreational spaces are shared by many people, including children and families. Restricting drone use in these areas helps:

• Improve public safety
• Protect personal privacy
• Reduce noise and nuisance

Can people still apply to use drones on Council land?

Yes. The proposed policy includes updated criteria that allow drone use by application, depending on the location, purpose, and safety considerations.

I don’t fly drones - why should I have a say?

Drone policies affect:

• How public spaces are used
• Privacy expectations
• Noise and safety in the community

Council wants feedback from both drone users and non-users to ensure the policy works for everyone.

How can I give feedback?

You can have your say by:

• Making an online submission HERE, or
• Providing written feedback

Submissions close 5pm 31 March, 2026.

What happens after consultation closes?

Council will:

• Review all submissions
• Consider feedback before finalising the policy
• Decide whether to adopt the proposed 2026 policy, with or without changes