Image: e-Lexia | Creative Commons
A drone taking off from a grassy area.
Drone use on conservation land
Learn about operating drones on public conservation land and how to apply for a drone permit (concession).

Drones are aircraft. All aircraft operating on conservation land need a permit.

Where you want to fly and for what purpose (recreational, commercial or research) affects how you apply for a permit.

Drone layer map issue

We're experiencing issues with drone layers in the Discover the outdoors map. You won't be able to see drone areas on public conservation land. Thank you for your patience while we investigate. Contact permissions@doc.govt.nz for any urgent issues.