The drone industry in New Zealand is soaring to new heights. From agriculture to film production, surveying to emergency response, drones are becoming essential tools across countless sectors.
With government agencies, councils, and private companies increasingly adopting UAV technology, demand for qualified drone pilots has never been higher.
According to recent aviation trends, New Zealand’s drone market is expected to double by 2028, creating hundreds of new jobs for certified pilots, data specialists, and aerial operations managers.
- Agriculture & Horticulture – Drones are now vital for spraying, spreading, crop-health monitoring, and precision farming. Farmers are turning to DJI Agras T50 and T100 systems to boost productivity while reducing chemical use.
- Construction & Infrastructure - Engineers and councils are using drones for mapping, inspections, and progress tracking—saving time and improving safety.
- Film & Media – From feature films to TV commercials, certified drone operators capture aerial footage that was once impossible or prohibitively expensive.
- Emergency Services & Security – Drones assist police, fire, and rescue teams with rapid-response imaging, night searches, and real-time data.
- Environmental Monitoring & Research – Universities and conservation groups deploy UAVs to monitor wildlife, coastal erosion, and forest health.
Each of these sectors requires trained pilots who understand CAA Part 101 and Part 102 rules, airspace management, and safe operational planning.
To work commercially or operate in restricted airspace, you’ll need proper certification through a CAA-approved training provider.
At NZ Drones Academy, students can progress through:
- Part 101 Pilot Certificate – Learn the fundamentals of safe flight, airspace, and UAV law.
- Part 102 Pilot Certificate – Gain the advanced knowledge and certification needed for commercial operations.
- Night Rating Course – Expand your capability to conduct operations safely after dark.
All courses are designed by industry experts with thousands of operational hours and delivered online and in person across New Zealand.
The global shift toward automation and aerial data is accelerating. Councils now use drone mapping for asset management, farmers for targeted spraying, and infrastructure firms for digital twin modelling.
In the next five years, New Zealand will see significant expansion in:
- Drone light shows and entertainment
- Large-scale agricultural operations
- AI-powered survey and inspection services
- Training and certification roles
Graduates from NZ Drones Academy are already working in these areas — flying with purpose, earning solid incomes, and helping shape a smarter, safer aerial future.
If you’re passionate about aviation, technology, or data, now is the time to build your future in drones.
Train with NZ Drones Academy
New Zealand’s trusted, CAA-approved training provider. Earn your certification, master real-world skills, and take your place in one of the country’s fastest-growing industries.
