Agricultural drone use is expanding steadily across New Zealand, with more farmers adopting the technology as part of routine land management rather than experimental trials.
“Agricultural drone technology continues to gain momentum across New Zealand’s farming regions.”
Steep slopes and fragmented paddocks restrict the use of ground-based machinery in many rural areas. “The technology addresses longstanding challenges in rural land management, particularly on difficult terrain where traditional machinery struggles to optimise efficiency.”
Drones are increasingly being used alongside existing methods, allowing targeted spraying, seeding, and fertiliser application in areas that are otherwise difficult to access.
The growth of agricultural drones has occurred within a regulated aviation framework. Licensed operators are required to meet safety and compliance standards, helping the sector gain wider acceptance.
Agrodrone operates as a licensed provider operating under CAA Part 102 certification.
This regulatory environment has contributed to greater accountability and professionalisation across the industry. Agrodrone has established operations across the Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions.
“Services extend beyond conventional drone pasture spraying to include crop protection, fertiliser spreading, and specialised applications such as roof cleaning.” “Agricultural drones can complete applications 50–60 per cent faster than traditional methods.” The sector also supports seasonal employment in rural economies.
“Operators in the sector can achieve seasonal earnings between $80,000 and $120,000 over an 18–22 week spray season.”
“Particularly valuable for hill country farms and areas where ground-based equipment faces limitations.”
The seeding work uses advanced JetSeed attachments paired with GPS technology and sensor systems. The technology is transitioning from experimental to established practice, with insurance coverage now common among licensed operators.