Drones are gaining popularity due to their versatile applications, such as aerial photography, filmmaking, and enjoyable flying experiences. New Zealand is the best place to learn about and buy the best drone nz that fits your unique needs. In this article, here are the top ten best drone nz you can buy. The advantages of each type are different.
There's a drone on this list for everyone, whether you're a professional shooter looking for beautiful aerial shots or an adrenaline junkie looking for a risky new way to see the world. Our first pick was these drones because they have the best performance, camera quality, flight stability, ease of use, and price/value ratio.
Before going through the list, consider flight time, range, camera quality, modes, and safety features. This helps you make a decision. Drone technology has changed quickly, giving new and experienced pilots more options.
With drones on our top ten list, you can see new places, take beautiful pictures from above, and feel the thrill of flying. Let's learn more about robotic aerial vehicles (UAVs) and find out which ones are best drone nz.
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Table of Contents
10 Best Drones in New Zealand 2024 | Top Camera Drones
Why It's Our Top Pick
This best drone nz can be folded up, which makes it easy to carry and travel with. It is made of strong materials that will last a long time and can take the occasional hit. If a drone and its remote device can connect to the 5G network, they can talk to each other more quickly and reliably, which improves the drone's responsiveness and performance in the air.
Specifications:
- Flight Time: Approximately 25 minutes
- Camera: 4K resolution
- Range: Up to 1 kilometer (0.62 miles)
- GPS: Built-in GPS technology
- Speed: Up to 40 miles per hour (64 kilometers per hour)
- Control Method: Remote controller or smartphone app
- Size and Weight: Foldable design, 8 inches by 6 inches by 3 inches (20 cm by 15 cm by 8 cm), weighs 1.5 pounds (0.68 kilograms)
The 5G GPS Foldable Professional Drone with Camera 4K is our top pick for the best cheap drone. It's an excellent alternative for people on a tight budget who don't want to sacrifice quality because it's cheap and has high-end features. These improvements make the drone more useful and easier to get new data.
Features:
For how cheap it is, this drone has a lot of power. It has a 4K camera that can take still pictures and ultra-high definition videos from the air. With a 5G connection, sending and receiving photos and live videos is easy. The built-in GPS makes exact positioning and smart flight modes possible, like "follow me," "orbit mode," and "waypoint navigation."
Performance:
The 5G GPS Foldable Professional Drone with Camera 4K is our top pick for the most budget drone because it is cheap and high-quality. Its 4K camera, intelligent flight modes, GPS capability, and 5G connectivity give customers a great drone flying experience at a fair price.
Specifications:
- Flight Time: Varies depending on the specific model but typically ranges from 15 to 30 minutes.
- Camera: 4K resolution, capable of capturing high-quality videos and photos.
- Range: Up to 500 meters (0.31 miles) or more, allowing for a decent operation distance.
- GPS: Some models may include GPS functionality for improved stability, precise positioning, and advanced flight features.
- Speed: Can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour (64 kilometers per hour) or more
- Control Method: Remote controller with joysticks and buttons, providing intuitive and responsive piloting.
- Size and Weight: Dimensions and weight vary depending on the specific model, but generally compact and lightweight for portability and ease of use.
The RC Drone with a 4K Camera is the best drone for kids. It's the best choice for young people who want to become pilots because it's easy to use, safe, and fun. Kids can film and share their adventures with family and friends with the drone's 4K camera, which takes high-definition video. Because it gives them rich pictures, they can tell better stories and use their imaginations.
Features:
This model is perfect for teaching kids how to fly a drone. It comes with a 4K camera so kids can use their ideas and make movies and pictures from the air. Because the drone's flying is reliable and its controls are easy to use, even kids can fly it. It can keep its height and avoid crashes thanks to safety features like altitude hold and silent mode that are built into it. These safety features allow even very young children to fly the drone safely.
Performance:
After studying, we decided that the RC Drone with a 4K Camera was the best drone for kids because it was the best in all three categories. Easy to use and stable, this drone is perfect for kids who want to take aerial photos and movies—beginner drivers like how durable and portable the drone is.
Specifications:
- Flight Time: Up to 4 hours (240 minutes) with the provided battery.
- Camera: 4K UHD resolution for capturing high-quality underwater videos and photos.
- Range: Can dive up to 100 meters (328 feet) and has a horizontal range of up to 500 meters (0.31 miles).
- GPS: Built-in GPS for precise underwater navigation and location tracking.
- Speed: Can move at a maximum speed of 2 meters per second (4.5 miles per hour).
- Control Method: Controlled remotely using a dedicated controller or a smartphone app.
- Size and Weight: Compact and lightweight design, with dimensions of approximately 410mm x 230mm x 105mm (16.1 inches x 9.1 inches x 4.1 inches) and around 2.5 kilograms (5.5 pounds).
The best underwater drone is the Gladius Mini S, which has a 4K UHD camera. It is great for underwater adventure and photography because it has cutting-edge features, works well, and takes high-quality photos and videos. When studying underwater terrain, this drone does a great job. Its 4K Ultra High Definition camera can take photos and videos underwater with a level of sharpness and detail that is truly amazing.
Features:
Because it is smooth and small, the drone can move quickly and precisely through the water. It can move quickly and precisely underwater thanks to its strong thrusters, which give it great control and stability. The camera is made to take high-quality pictures underwater so that divers can keep track of their adventures.
Performance:
The Gladius Mini S Underwater Drone with 4K UHD camera is our top pick for the best underwater drone because of its advanced features, powerful performance, and high-quality picture capabilities. It is great for underwater exploration and photography because of its small size, strong thrusters, ability to stream live, and ability to take stunning 4K UHD video.
Specifications:
- Flight Time: Varies depending on the specific model but typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes.
- Camera: Dual HD cameras with 6K resolution, providing high-quality aerial photography and videography.
- Range: Up to 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) or more, allowing extended remote operations.
- GPS: Equipped with GPS technology for precise positioning, waypoint navigation, and return-to-home functionality.
- Speed: Can reach up to 40 miles per hour (64 kilometers per hour) or more.
- Control Method: Remote controller with intuitive controls, advanced features or smartphone app compatibility.
- Size and Weight: 27*23*5.5 CM & 243g
Our top pick for the best trick drone is the 6K GPS Drone with Dual HD Camera and Laser Obstacle Avoidance. Drone pilots who like to do dangerous aerial stunts will be excited by its high-tech features and responsive controls. The drone can do things without running into anything because it has lasers that can avoid obstacles.
Features:
This drone is great at doing tricks because it is so agile and good at what it does. It has a dual HD camera system records high-definition video in 6K quality. This lets users relive their thrilling flights from different angles and share them with others. The drone's built-in GPS technology lets it navigate accurately, which makes it more stable when doing tricks.
Performance:
Our top pick for the best trick drone is the 6K GPS Drone with Dual HD Camera and Laser Obstacle Avoidance because of how well it works and can do stunts. With its high-resolution cameras, GPS location, obstacle avoidance, and advanced flight controls, this drone gives pilots a new level of excitement when doing risky aerial acrobatics.
Specifications:
- Flight Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes, providing ample time for aerial operations.
- Camera: 8K HD resolution, delivering exceptionally high-quality videos and photos.
- Range: Up to 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles) or more, enabling extended range flights.
- GPS: Integrated GPS for precise positioning, accurate navigation, and intelligent flight modes.
- Speed: Can reach up to 50 kilometers per hour (31 miles per hour) or more.
- Control Method: Remote controller with responsive controls, advanced flight features or smartphone app control.
- Size and Weight: The drone is foldable for easy portability and measures approximately 12 inches by 8 inches by 3 inches (30 cm by 20 cm by 8 cm). Its weight is around 1.5 pounds (0.68 kilograms).
Our top pick for the best drone with a 4K video is the GPS Foldable Brushless Drone with 8K HD Professional video. It sticks out because it has cutting-edge features and great functionality. This drone folds up, making it easy to store and move. Even though it is small, it will last because it is made of strong materials. This ensures the plane will work well no matter how rough the sky gets.
Features:
This drone's brushless motor allows quick and maneuverable flight. It ensures that aerial shooting is smooth and stable, making getting beautiful photos and videos easy. With GPS, you can find your exact location and find your way around. This makes this tool useful for both work and play. Because this drone has an 8K HD camera, the high-definition photos and videos it takes from the air are of the highest quality. It uses cutting-edge picture stabilization technology to remove motion and blur from your movie, making it look like a pro took it.
Performance:
The GPS Foldable Brushless Drone with an 8K HD Professional Camera is our best choice because it works well and has cutting-edge features. It can fly well and has a high-resolution camera that lets it take beautiful pictures from the air. It is also better than other drones because it has many clever flight modes, is well-made, and comes in a small package.
Specifications:
- Flight Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes, allowing for moderate flight durations.
- Camera: 4K HD resolution, capturing high-quality videos and photos.
- Range: Up to 200 meters (656 feet) or more
- GPS: Equipped with GPS for precise positioning, waypoint navigation, and intelligent flight modes.
- Speed: Can achieve speeds of up to 30 kilometers per hour (18.6 miles per hour) or more.
- Control Method: Controlled via a remote controller or smartphone app using 5G WiFi FPV.
- Size and Weight: Compact and lightweight design, with dimensions typically around 20 cm by 20 cm (7.87 inches by 7.87 inches) and a weight of approximately 200 grams (0.44 pounds).
The MINI GPS 5G WIFI FPV Drone with a 4K HD Camera is our top pick for the best drone for stunts. It combines compact size, innovative features, and remarkable performance to deliver an entertaining and elegant drone for performing amazing aerial acrobatics.
Features:
This drone is great at speed and maneuverability, making it a great choice for stunts. Its 4K HD camera takes high-quality videos of stunts that are clear and detailed enough to blow your mind. With 5G WIFI FPV connectivity, customers can fly through a connected device in real-time as smooth and reliable live video feeds are sent.
Performance:
The MINI GPS 5G WIFI FPV Drone with a 4K HD Camera stands out as our top pick for the best drone for stunts due to its impressive performance, advanced features, and maneuverability. It offers a high-resolution camera, GPS positioning, intelligent flight modes, and acrobatic capabilities, providing drone enthusiasts with an exciting and versatile platform for executing thrilling aerial stunts.
Specifications:
- Flight Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes, providing decent flight durations for various aerial activities.
- Camera: 4K HD resolution camera, capable of capturing high-quality videos and photos.
- Range: Up to 100 meters (328 feet) or more
- Speed: Can reach speeds of up to 20 kilometers per hour (12.4 miles per hour) or more.
- Control Method: Controlled through a 6-channel remote controller, offering easy operation.
- Size and Weight: Compact and lightweight design, typically measuring around 30 cm by 30 cm (11.8 inches by 11.8 inches) and weighing approximately 200 grams (0.44 pounds).
The JJRC 6-channel, reliable, easy-to-use drone with a 4K HD camera is the best for photos. It is great regarding how well it works and how easy it is to use. Both of these things directly improve overhead photography. Photographers can now easily put the drone where it will take the best pictures of scenery, events, or anything else.
Features:
This drone has a 4K HD camera that can take high-quality still and live pictures. Photographers have more ways to explore their artistic side and make beautiful pictures thanks to the incredibly clear and detailed overhead photos. The drone's 6-channel control system allows it to fly quickly and precisely.
Performance:
The JJRC 6-channel sturdy and easy-to-use drone with a 4K HD camera is our top pick for the best drone for photography because it works well and has great features. It's a great choice for shooters who want to take stunning aerial photos because of its high-resolution camera, precise agility, and features that make it more stable.
Specifications:
- Flight Time: Approximately 20 minutes, providing a decent amount of flight time for various activities.
- Camera: A 4K resolution camera is equipped to capture high-definition videos and photos.
- Range: Up to 100 meters (328 feet) or more
- Speed: Can achieve speeds of up to 25 kilometers per hour (15.5 miles per hour) or more.
- Control Method: Controlled through a remote controller or a smartphone app for easy operation.
- Size and Weight: Compact and lightweight design, typically measuring around 15 cm by 15 cm (5.9 inches by 5.9 inches) and weighing approximately 100 grams (0.22 pounds).
Our research showed that the Mini Drone with 4K Obstacle Avoid Optical-Flow Double Camera HD FPV was the best deal. It is excellent choice for those who want to save money without giving up ease or usefulness. This makes the drone easier to use in general, especially for people who are just starting.
Features:
This little drone is cheap but does much more than it costs. With its optical-flow technology and 4K camera that can avoid obstacles, you can take beautiful photos and videos from above without worrying about hitting anything. Using two cameras improves the quality of the pictures and lets you take more kinds of photos. The drone uses optical-flow technology to stay in the air and land exactly where it needs to be in tight spaces.
Performance:
Our top pick for the best cheap drone is the Mini Drone with 4K Obstacle Avoid Optical-Flow Double Camera HD FPV because it has a great mix between price and features. It is a low-cost, high-quality, and fun flying drone with a 4K camera, features to avoid obstacles, optical-flow technology, and first-person view (FPV) capabilities.
Specifications:
- Flight Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes, offering a moderate flight duration for its size.
- Camera: 4K/1080P camera options for capturing high-resolution videos and photos.
- Range: Up to 80 meters (262 feet) or more
- Speed: Can achieve speeds of up to 20 kilometers per hour (12.4 miles per hour) or more.
- Control Method: Controlled through a remote controller or WiFi FPV using a smartphone app.
- Size and Weight: Compact and lightweight design, typically measuring around 10 cm by 10 cm (3.9 inches by 3.9 inches) and weighing approximately 50 grams (0.11 pounds).
The best drone with a 4K camera is the KY905 Mini WiFi FPV Drone, so stop looking. With its high-resolution camera, you can take amazing photos and videos from the air. Since the drone has WiFi FPV (First Person View), you can fly it while watching the live feed from the camera on your phone.
Features:
The altitude holds function, and the six-axis gyro stabilization system built into the KY905 Mini makes flying easy and stable. Additionally, it offers a headless mode that takes the worry out of how the drone is flying for beginner operators.
Performance:
This camera drone is a top choice because it can be folded into a little package and carried easily. Considering how long the drone's battery lasts, you might spend longer in the air.
Specifications:
- Flight Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes, providing a decent flight duration for various activities.
- Camera: Equipped with a camera for capturing photos and videos.
- Range: Up to 100 meters (328 feet) or more.
- GPS: This model has built-in functionality for precise positioning and intelligent flight modes.
- Speed: Can achieve speeds of up to 25 kilometers per hour (15.5 miles per hour) or more.
- Control Method: Controlled through a remote controller, offering ease of operation.
- Size and Weight: Compact and lightweight design, with dimensions typically around 30 cm by 30 cm (11.8 inches by 11.8 inches) and weighing approximately 200-300 grams (0.44-0.66 pounds).
The GPS 4 Axis Gyro camera for Adults is the best cheap drone on the market. It meets the wants of adult drone fans without being too pricey. It's effortless to use, so even adults who have never flown a drone will find it fun.
Features:
This drone always stays stable in the air thanks to its GPS and 4-axis gyro control systems. The GPS allows for accurate tracking, which makes flying safe and easy to control. The 4-axis gyro control system makes it easy to take pictures and movies from the air. It can also keep flying and recording at the same time.
Performance:
The GPS 4 Axis Gyro Drone with Camera for Adults is our top choice for the least expensive drone because it is cheap and has features that more experienced pilots will like. It's an excellent choice for individuals looking for a cheap drone that works well because it has GPS, 4-axis gyro stability, and a camera for taking videos from the air.
What is a Drone?
A drone is a remotely controlled airplane. A drone camera can be controlled from a distance or by a pilot using an autonomous flight device. Because they have many rotors, they can take off, rest vertically, and stay in the air. Drones are gaining popularity since they can be used for more than filming and photography.
Different Types of Drones
There are several types of drone nz available, each designed for specific purposes and user requirements:
- Camera Drones: Users can take amazing pictures from the air with a camera drone or the option to attach cameras. People who work in the media use this, like reporters and directors.
- Racing Drones: Racing drones are specially made planes used in air races requiring speed and skill. They are small, light, and fast, and some even have First Person View (FPV) cams so that competitors can see what it looks like from their point of view during races.
- Professional Drones: These drones are for scanning, mapping, inspecting, and making things from the air. They often have better cameras, can hover for longer periods, and have sensors that are made for particular jobs.
- Toy Drones: Toy drones are cheaper and beginner-friendly versions of larger drones. They are easy to use and have standard functions like "altitude hold."
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Drone
When choosing the best drone nz, consider the following factors:
- Purpose: Consider what you'll use your drone most as you select its features.
- Camera Quality: Consider the camera's quality and clarity if you intend to take many aerial photos or videos. Look for drones with gimbals that can be used to stabilize the camera.
- Flight Time and Range: Consider how long the battery will last and how far the drone can fly to ensure that the drone meets your requirements. Longer flight durations and greater flight ranges allow for greater mobility in the air.
- Flight Features: Look for tools that make things simpler and safer, such as return-to-home buttons, obstacle avoidance, and GPS navigation.
- Controller and Connectivity: Consider the types of routers and the various network configurations. Some drones require a remote control, while others can be piloted using a smartphone or computer. Verify that it is compatible with your intended method of handling.
- Budget: Look and buy drone nz on a budget and search for the finest drone camera within that price range. Consider everything you receive, from the drone to the spare batteries and other accessories.
Best Drone Brands in New Zealand
IIn New Zealand, a variety of well-regarded drone brands provide a diverse selection of products that cater to various needs and budgets. Here are some of the best drone brands available in New Zealand:
DJI
This brand is a globally recognized leader in the drone industry, known for producing high-quality drones with advanced features and excellent camera capabilities. They offer a wide range of drones, including consumer-friendly models like the DJI Mavic series and professional-grade drones like the DJI Phantom and Inspire series.
Parrot
It is a well-established brand that offers a variety of drones suitable for both recreational and professional use. They provide drones with features like built-in cameras, stabilization systems, and user-friendly controls. Parrot's popular models include the Parrot ANAFI and Parrot Bebop series.
Autel Robotics
This particular brand has gained a reputation for its drones that are packed with innovative features. They offer drones with advanced camera systems, intelligent flight modes, and long flight times. The Autel Robotics EVO series is highly regarded for its image quality and reliability.
Yuneec
The brand manufactures drones for various applications, including aerial photography and videography. They provide drones with features like 4K cameras, obstacle avoidance, and extended flight times. The Yuneec Typhoon series is well-regarded among drone enthusiasts.
Hubsan
It is a brand that offers affordable drones without compromising on quality. They provide entry-level and intermediate drones with features like HD cameras, altitude hold, and user-friendly controls. The Hubsan X4 series is popular among beginners.
These brands have earned a reputation for their dedication to quality, dependability, and advancements in drone technology. When selecting a drone brand and model, it is crucial to carefully consider your individual requirements, including factors such as flight duration, camera capabilities, range, and budgetary considerations. Additionally, researching and comparing the specifications and customer reviews of different drones will help you make an informed decision.
Where to Buy Drones in New Zealand?
You can purchase drones from various online and offline retailers in New Zealand. Here are some popular options:
- Retail Stores:
- Harvey Norman: A well-known electronics and home appliances retailer with physical stores throughout New Zealand.
- Noel Leeming: Another popular electronics retailer with a wide range of drones available in their stores.
- PB Tech: One of the largest technology retailers in New Zealand, offering a comprehensive selection of drones.
- Online Retailers:
- Mighty Ape: A popular online retailer that offers a wide range of drones with competitive prices and fast delivery.
- Parallel Imported: An online store specializing in electronics, including drones, with discounted prices and deals.
- Amazon (International): While Amazon is an international platform, they offer global shipping to New Zealand. It provides a vast selection of drones from various brands and sellers. However, check the shipping costs and import duties before making a purchase.
- Specialized Drone Retailers:
- D1 Store: A New Zealand-based online store specializing in drones, offering various models and accessories.
- Drone Depot: Another New Zealand-based online store that focuses on drones and related accessories, providing a range of options.
It's advisable to compare prices, check for local promotions, and read customer reviews to make an informed decision. Additionally, visiting the official websites of the drone brands mentioned earlier may provide information on authorized retailers or online partners in New Zealand.
Drones Price Range in New Zealand
Drones in New Zealand can vary significantly in price due to factors such as brand, model, features, camera quality, and flight capabilities. Here's a general breakdown of price ranges you can expect for drones in New Zealand:
- Entry-level drones: NZD 100 - NZD 500
- Entry-level drones are typically smaller and may not have advanced camera capabilities. They are suitable for beginners and recreational users. These drones often offer basic flight features and controls.
- Mid-range drones: NZD 500 - NZD 1500
- Mid-range drones offer better camera quality, flight stability, and additional features. They may have improved flight performance, longer battery life, and more advanced flight modes. These drones suit hobbyists and enthusiasts who want better image and video quality.
- High-end/professional drones: NZD 1500 and above
- High-end drones are designed for professional aerial photography and videography purposes. They offer advanced camera systems, longer flight times, obstacle avoidance, and advanced flight modes. These drones often have premium build quality, higher-resolution cameras, and more sophisticated features.
Please keep in mind that the price ranges provided are approximate guidelines and the actual prices of drones in New Zealand can vary depending on factors such as the specific model, retailer, and currency exchange rates. Additionally, due to market fluctuations, technological advancements, and new product releases, drone prices can change over time.
Before making a purchase, it's recommended to research and compare prices from multiple retailers, consider the features that align with your requirements, and read customer reviews to ensure you're selecting a drone that suits your needs and budget.
Conclusion
You can choose the 10 best drones in New Zealand based on price, intended use, camera quality, flight skills, and features. If you take the time to consider about these things and research your choices, you should be able to choose a drone with camera nz that meets your needs and is fun to fly. If you're a photographer, a race fan, or just someone who wants to see what's up there, the best drone nz gives you numerous options to pick the best suits your needs. Think carefully about your options, put your needs in order of how important they are to you, and make a choice that meets your needs and budget. Safe travels!