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The Pilots Desk
NZ-CAADrone and RPAS rules

New rules for RPAS

Read the official rule

The Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand has updated the regulations for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), commonly referred to as drones. Effective from August 1, 2015, these new rules aim to enhance safety measures in the management of RPAS, which had been governed by older rules designed for model aircraft.

Key points

  • Updated RPAS rules announced by Associate Transport Minister Craig Foss.
  • New regulations take effect on August 1, 2015.
  • Aim is to improve safety management of drones.
  • Previously, RPAS were regulated under model aircraft rules.

*Plain-English summary of Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand guidance — always consult the official source (linked above) for current, authoritative requirements.*

This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 15, 2026.