In New Zealand's diverse agricultural landscape, from the rolling hills of Waikato to the expansive orchards of the North Island, landowners constantly seek smarter, more efficient ways to manage their land. Traditional spraying methods, while proven, often face limitations, especially on steep, wet, or hard-to-reach terrain where ground rigs struggle. Modern drone technology offers a significant leap forward, providing a powerful solution for precise, targeted applications of fertilisers, pesticides, and herbicides. This technology brings a level of quality and precision that was previously difficult to achieve, enabling better care for both crops and the land itself.
This shift represents a fundamental change in how we approach land management. By leveraging specialised drone services, farmers can access challenging gullies and hillsides without the risk of soil compaction that heavy machinery can cause. Treatments can be applied with pinpoint accuracy to reduce chemical waste and protect the surrounding environment. Furthermore, drone technology significantly speeds up application, allowing jobs to be completed in a fraction of the time compared to conventional methods. This article explores the top drone companies NZ farmers and growers are turning to, helping you find the right partner for your agricultural needs, whether you require a full-service spraying operator or are looking to purchase equipment.
1. AgriUAS Limited
Best for: Precision Agricultural and Horticultural Spraying
AgriUAS Limited stands out as a premier choice among drone companies in NZ, specialising in highly technical, data-driven drone spraying for the agriculture, horticulture, and property care sectors. Operating across Auckland, Waikato, and the broader North Island, the company’s strength lies in its fusion of advanced agronomic knowledge with certified UAV operation. This ensures their service delivers specific, measurable outcomes with a focus on quality and care. Their professional approach guarantees that every application, from crop protection to gorse control, is executed with precision, safety, and efficiency, making them a trusted partner for landowners.
on their website, providing valuable insights into the technology.
Key Service Strengths
AgriUAS’s operational excellence is powered by the industrial-grade DJI AGRAS T50 drone. This machine is a significant asset, equipped with features designed for superior performance in New Zealand's diverse and often challenging terrain. The quality of the equipment directly translates into a higher standard of service for their clients.
- High-Precision Application: The AGRAS T50’s twin-atomising nozzles create uniform droplets, ensuring consistent and thorough coverage for effective results. This precision allows the drone to target specific weeds or pests, minimising off-target drift. Combined with advanced sensors for real-time terrain following, the system can precisely treat steep hillsides, wet paddocks, or other areas that are inaccessible to conventional ground rigs.
- Operational Efficiency: Downtime is minimised thanks to a rapid battery recharge system that gets the drone back in the air quickly. This efficiency, coupled with the drone's large payload capacity, allows for the swift and effective treatment of targeted areas. For farmers, this means faster job completion and less disruption to other farm operations.
- Sustainable and Cost-Effective: By optimising spray volume and targeting specific problem areas, drone application significantly reduces chemical runoff, fuel consumption, and soil compaction. This precise approach not only delivers environmental benefits but can also lower overall operational costs for farmers, making it a smart financial choice.
Ideal Use Cases
The versatility of the AgriUAS service makes it a practical solution for a wide range of agricultural and horticultural needs. For orchardists, it means targeted pest and disease control without damaging delicate root systems. For farmers, it offers an efficient way to manage invasive weeds like gorse and blackberry in hard-to-reach gullies, restoring unproductive land. The speed and precision of the drone allow for timely intervention, which is crucial for effective crop management and weed control. While pricing is provided on a per-quote basis to ensure accuracy, the team’s emphasis on certified expertise provides strong assurance of a quality outcome.
Website: https://agriuas.co.nz
2. Ferntech Commercial
Ferntech Commercial stands out as a premier New Zealand supplier and integrator for DJI Enterprise drones, positioning itself as a go-to platform for farmers, orchardists, and contractors seeking to purchase their own high-end agricultural drone equipment. Rather than offering spraying services directly, Ferntech focuses on supplying the hardware itself, backed by extensive local support and training. This makes them an ideal starting point for businesses ready to invest in bringing their aerial application capabilities in-house.
The website serves as a detailed catalogue for DJI's Agras series of spraying and spreading drones, including popular models like the T10, T20P, and T40. A key advantage for buyers is the transparency; many products feature clear NZD pricing, removing the guesswork often associated with enterprise-grade equipment purchases. This allows for straightforward budget planning and comparison.
Why It Makes the List
Ferntech’s specialisation in the DJI Agras portfolio provides a focused, expert-led purchasing experience. Their dedicated commercial team offers consultative guidance to help customers select the right platform and payloads for specific use cases, from kiwifruit pollination to gorse control. They also provide crucial on-farm training, ensuring new owners can operate their investment safely and effectively from day one. This level of after-sales support is a significant benefit for anyone new to agricultural drone technology. While some advanced enterprise gear may require a quote, the availability of in-stock items makes Ferntech a reliable supplier.
- Best for: Farms, orchards, and agricultural contractors wanting to purchase and operate their own DJI Agras spraying drones with local NZ support and training.
- Key Feature: Transparent NZD pricing on many DJI Agras drones and accessories, plus a dedicated commercial support team.
- Consideration: As a hardware supplier, purchasing a drone is just the first step. Operators will still need to complete the necessary CAA certifications and operational planning, a process that specialist service providers handle for you.
For those evaluating whether to buy equipment or hire a professional team, understanding the full scope of drone spraying services can provide valuable context for making an informed decision.
Website: https://www.ferntechcommercial.co.nz/
3. Aerolab NZ
Aerolab NZ carves out a niche as a specialist retailer and integrator for agricultural professionals ready to scale their drone operations. The company focuses on providing complete, ready-to-operate DJI Agras T50 and T100 kits, bundling everything an operator needs to get into the field quickly. This turnkey approach is designed for those moving beyond entry-level equipment and seeking a streamlined path to deploying professional-grade spraying and spreading solutions.
The website provides highly detailed product pages with clear performance specifications like payload capacity, flow rates, and sensor capabilities. This technical transparency, combined with a focus on comprehensive packages, positions Aerolab as a key supplier for established contractors or large-scale farming operations looking to invest in top-tier drone technology.
Why It Makes the List
What sets Aerolab NZ apart is its explicit focus on compliance and operational readiness. The company doesn't just sell a drone; it provides a clear pathway to legal and effective operation in New Zealand. Their product offerings are supported by guidance on the necessary certifications, including CAA Part 102, chemical handling ratings, and the specific UAV agricultural rating. This integrated approach demystifies the complex regulatory landscape, making it one of the best drone companies in NZ for serious commercial operators.
Their turnkey bundles, which include all necessary batteries, chargers, and spreading systems, significantly reduce the time and complexity involved in setting up a new aerial application system. By providing clear NZD pricing for these high-end kits, Aerolab helps businesses make significant capital investment decisions with confidence and clarity.
- Best for: Agricultural contractors and large-scale farm operators looking to purchase a complete, high-performance DJI Agras drone package with integrated NZ compliance support.
- Key Feature: Turnkey DJI Agras T50 and T100 kits that include all necessary components, alongside explicit guidance for achieving Part 102 certification and other NZ-specific operational requirements.
- Consideration: The focus is on premium, professional-grade systems, meaning the initial capital outlay is substantial. This platform is geared towards established businesses rather than those just starting to explore drone technology.
Website: https://www.aerolab.co.nz/
4. Drone Depot
Drone Depot operates as an authorised DJI retailer in New Zealand, carving out a niche for businesses and professionals who need flexibility in how they acquire and manage their drone fleets. While well-known for its prosumer lines, the platform also serves as a valuable resource for enterprise-level equipment. It’s an ideal hub for teams looking for a single NZ-based partner for purchasing, renting, repairing, or even trading in drone technology, offering a comprehensive lifecycle management solution.
The website provides a clear, e-commerce-style experience with NZD pricing on a wide range of products, from the Mavic 3 Enterprise to essential RTK modules. This transparency, combined with features like free nationwide shipping over a certain threshold and same-day dispatch, makes procurement straightforward. For agricultural or surveying businesses, the ability to rent a specific model before committing to a purchase or to access local repair services to minimise operational downtime is a significant advantage.
Why It Makes the List
Drone Depot’s strength lies in its multiple engagement paths, making it one of the most versatile drone companies in NZ. The trade-in programme is a standout feature, allowing businesses to upgrade their fleets cost-effectively by trading in older models. This, alongside local repair services and rental options, provides crucial support for maintaining operational continuity. Whether you need to test a new surveying drone for a specific project or get a damaged unit back in the air quickly, Drone Depot provides a practical, locally-based solution.
- Best for: Businesses and professionals seeking a flexible supplier for purchasing, renting, repairing, and trading in DJI Enterprise drones with reliable local NZ support.
- Key Feature: A comprehensive service model including rentals, trade-ins, and local repairs, complementing its role as an authorised DJI retailer.
- Consideration: While enterprise gear is listed, larger agricultural spraying drones like the Agras series may require a special enquiry rather than being immediately available for online purchase, and stock levels can vary.
Website: https://dronedepot.co.nz/
5. PB Tech
As one of New Zealand’s largest and most recognisable technology retailers, PB Tech serves a different but essential role in the drone ecosystem. While not a specialised agricultural service provider, it is a crucial nationwide supplier for the vast array of supporting technology that powers a successful drone operation. For businesses managing their own drone fleet, PB Tech is a practical one-stop shop for everything from high-performance computers for data processing to rugged storage solutions and essential accessories.
The website provides a comprehensive catalogue of prosumer and professional-grade DJI drones, but its real strength for agricultural operators lies in the peripheral equipment. Here, you can source everything from spare batteries and propellers to DJI Care Refresh plans, all with clear NZD pricing and GST invoices suitable for business procurement. Their nationwide network of physical stores and service centres provides a level of accessibility for warranty claims, click-and-collect orders, and in-person support that is unmatched by online-only retailers.
Why It Makes the List
PB Tech excels at streamlining the procurement and maintenance of the IT infrastructure that surrounds a modern drone programme. Their business-friendly services, including account management and bulk order quoting, simplify the process of outfitting a team with the necessary hardware. For any business handling large volumes of aerial data for mapping or analysis, having a reliable local source for powerful laptops, network-attached storage (NAS), and backup drives is a significant operational advantage. Their fast shipping from New Zealand warehouses ensures minimal downtime when critical accessories need replacing.
- Best for: Businesses and operators who manage their own drone fleets and need a reliable national supplier for accessories, IT hardware, data storage, and warranty support.
- Key Feature: Extensive range of drone accessories and supporting IT equipment with transparent NZD pricing, backed by a nationwide retail and service footprint.
- Consideration: PB Tech’s focus is on hardware sales, particularly for non-agricultural models. It does not offer the specialised agricultural drone (like the Agras series) sales, operational training, or hands-on integration support provided by dedicated enterprise drone companies NZ has to offer.
When your needs extend beyond accessories to expert application, engaging with a team that has deep experience in agricultural UAVs is vital. Exploring dedicated drone spraying services can highlight the difference between simply owning the technology and deploying it for maximum effect.
Website: https://www.pbtech.co.nz/
6. Trade Me
As New Zealand's largest and most well-known online marketplace, Trade Me serves a unique role for those in the drone industry. It’s a vast platform where individuals, small operators, and retailers list new, used, and refurbished drones, parts, and accessories. While not a specialist supplier, it’s an invaluable resource for sourcing discontinued models, finding cost-effective second-hand prosumer drones for training purposes, or even discovering surplus enterprise gear that might complement an existing fleet.
The platform connects buyers and sellers across the country, offering nationwide shipping options from NZ-based vendors. Its familiar interface, complete with search filters for condition, price, and location, makes it straightforward to navigate the large volume of listings. For anyone looking to build out their drone programme or find a budget-friendly backup unit, Trade Me provides a dynamic and ever-changing catalogue of options that you won't find through traditional commercial channels.
Why It Makes the List
Trade Me’s strength lies in its sheer diversity and the potential for finding great value. Among the various drone companies in NZ, this platform stands alone as a peer-to-peer marketplace. It can be the perfect place to find a lightly used photography drone to practise flight manoeuvres before investing in a six-figure agricultural machine. The seller feedback and buyer protection mechanisms provide a layer of confidence, though careful due diligence is always required. While you are less likely to find a top-tier DJI Agras sprayer here, it’s an excellent starting point for ancillary equipment or entry-level models.
- Best for: Sourcing used or clearance prosumer drones for training, finding discontinued parts, or acquiring budget-friendly backup equipment from NZ sellers.
- Key Feature: A massive volume of listings with powerful search filters and a seller rating system to help vet potential purchases.
- Consideration: The quality and availability of stock are highly variable. Listings for specialised agricultural drones are infrequent, and buyers must carefully assess seller history and product condition without the expert guidance of a dedicated supplier.
Website: https://www.trademe.co.nz/
7. UAVNZ
UAVNZ, the commercial drone division of Aviation NZ, serves as the central industry association for unmanned aviation in New Zealand. Rather than being a direct service provider, it functions as a national hub and public directory, connecting customers with reputable drone companies across the country. The platform is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to engage certified and professional operators, trainers, or manufacturers who adhere to a strict code of conduct and best-practice standards.
The website's primary feature is its free-to-access member directory. This allows potential clients, from farmers to facility managers, to search for and identify specialists for various applications. It provides a layer of assurance, as listed members have committed to upholding professional and safety standards. This makes it an excellent starting point for due diligence when you need to find and vet potential service partners for tasks like aerial spraying or site surveying.
Why It Makes the List
UAVNZ is a crucial tool for navigating the New Zealand drone industry with confidence. It allows users to benchmark providers and ensure they are engaging with companies that take their regulatory and safety obligations seriously. For a farmer needing to control gorse in a hard-to-reach gully, the directory offers a way to find multiple local operators who specialise in agricultural work, enabling them to compare services and request quotes from a pool of vetted professionals. The association also plays a key role in industry advocacy, helping to shape the regulations that govern safe drone operations.
- Best for: Anyone seeking to find and verify credible, professional drone service providers, trainers, or partners anywhere in New Zealand.
- Key Feature: A public, searchable directory of member companies that have agreed to a code of conduct, providing a trusted starting point for procurement.
- Consideration: The directory's quality relies on how members present themselves, so you will still need to contact companies directly and conduct your own vetting. It is a discovery tool, not a transactional platform.
To better understand the operational details and best practices you should look for in a provider, you can explore further insights into professional drone applications on our industry blog.
Website: https://www.uavnz.org/
Top 7 NZ Drone Companies Comparison
| Provider | Implementation complexity | Resource requirements | Expected outcomes | Ideal use cases | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AgriUAS Limited | Low for customers (service delivery); operator complexity handled by provider | Customer pays per job; minimal on‑farm prep; weather dependent | Fast, precise spray applications; reduced chemical use and soil compaction | Farmers with steep/wet/inaccessible terrain; one‑off or seasonal spraying | Hands‑on agronomy + certified UAV ops; industrial AGRAS T50 capabilities |
| Ferntech Commercial | Medium — equipment purchase, integration and compliance | Capital outlay for enterprise drones; training/compliance; local support | Enterprise‑grade, scalable spraying and RTK integrations | Farms or contractors buying Agras platforms and integrations | Local distributor with pricing, pre‑sales consulting and after‑sales support |
| Aerolab NZ | Medium — turnkey kit deployment with compliance support | High capital for complete Agras kits; certification guidance provided | Ready‑to‑operate setups; faster time‑to‑field | Operators scaling to professional spraying operations | Turnkey bundles, clear NZ compliance checklist and specs |
| Drone Depot | Low–Medium — buy, rent or repair options; less specialist integration | Purchase or rental fees; optional repairs and trade‑in logistics | Flexible access to enterprise/prosumer gear; bridge capacity gaps | Teams needing rentals, repairs, or testing before purchase | Rentals, trade‑in, local repairs and clear NZ pricing/shipping |
| PB Tech | Low — accessory procurement and support | Lower capital for accessories; nationwide pickup and warranty handling | Reliable warranty support and fast logistics for UAV workflows | Procuring batteries, storage, computing and service plans | Wide retail footprint, fast NZ shipping and procurement options |
| Trade Me | Variable — depends on seller and item quality | Low to medium cost for used gear; due diligence time and inspection | Cost‑effective access to used/discontinued models; variable risk | Finding second‑hand kits, surplus enterprise items or bargains | Large selection, competitive pricing, NZ seller marketplace |
| UAVNZ | Low — directory and industry hub; no direct sales | Minimal cost to research; direct contact with vetted members | Easier discovery of reputable operators, trainers and integrators | Sourcing vetted service providers or benchmarking partners | Industry directory, code‑of‑conduct members, regulatory advocacy |
Choosing Your Partner for Precision Drone Spraying
Navigating the landscape of drone companies NZ reveals a diverse and specialised market. We've explored providers ranging from nationwide equipment suppliers to industry associations that uphold quality standards. This variety underscores a crucial point: the right choice depends entirely on your operational needs. For farmers, growers, and property managers, the decision often comes down to a simple question: do you need to buy equipment, or do you need a complete, expert-led service?
For those in agriculture and horticulture, the real value lies in the precise and intelligent application of the technology. Choosing a specialised service provider means gaining a partner who understands agronomy, local terrain, and the specific challenges you face, whether it’s timing a fungicide application on your orchard or tackling stubborn gorse on a steep hillside. A service partner brings certified expertise, advanced application technology, and the practical experience needed to deliver measurable results with quality, care, and precision. This is where the benefits of drone spraying—reaching inaccessible areas, rapid application, and better targeting—are fully realised.
When making your final decision, consider these key factors carefully:
- Expertise and Specialisation: Does the company have proven experience in your specific application, such as agricultural spraying, weed control, or crop health?
- Technology and Capability: What equipment do they use? Advanced drones offer superior coverage, variable rate application, and greater efficiency.
- Operational Safety and Compliance: Is the provider fully certified under Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) rules? This is non-negotiable for ensuring safe and legal operations.
- Local Knowledge: A deep understanding of regional conditions, from weather patterns to unique topography, is invaluable for effective mission planning and execution.
Ultimately, selecting the right drone partner is an investment in efficiency, safety, and the long-term health of your land. It's about leveraging technology to access hard-to-reach areas, apply treatments with pinpoint accuracy, and achieve better outcomes than conventional methods can offer. By focusing on your specific goals and choosing a provider whose capabilities align with them, you can confidently integrate this technology into your operations.
Ready to experience the benefits of precision agricultural drone spraying on your property? For a service that combines quality, care, and precision, partner with AgriUAS Limited. We are a leading provider dedicated to delivering targeted, efficient, and expert-led solutions across Auckland, Waikato, and the North Island. Visit our website at AgriUAS Limited to learn more about our services or to request a customised quote for your specific agricultural needs.