Yes, you can fly a drone in the Cook Islands, but on Rarotonga you need permission first. Drone flying falls under the Cook Islands Civil Aviation Rules (CICAR), mainly Part 101, enforced by the Ministry of Transport. The whole of Rarotonga sits inside the international airport's control zone, so every flight there, for fun or for work, needs approval from Air Traffic Services at the Airport Authority. Elsewhere, stay under 400 ft and at least 4 km from any aerodrome.
The core rules
The Cook Islands rules follow the same pattern as New Zealand's. Under CICAR Part 101:
- Controlled airspace: don't fly in it without authorization from the air traffic control unit (rule 101.11).
- Aerodromes: don't fly within 4 km of an uncontrolled aerodrome (rule 101.205).
- Height: stay at or below 400 ft (about 122 m) above ground or water (rule 101.207).
- People and property: don't fly over people or property without their prior consent (rule 101.207).
Fly in daylight, keep the drone in sight, and respect privacy. Paid work, such as wedding, real estate or resort shoots, falls under CICAR Part 102 and needs a permit from the Ministry of Transport. Start that process well before you travel.
Rarotonga and Aitutaki
This is the part that catches visitors. Rarotonga is a small island, and all of it lies within the control zone of Rarotonga International Airport. That means:
- Contact Air Traffic Services at the Airport Authority before you fly anywhere on the island.
- Tell them where, when and how high you plan to fly.
- Fly only within the approval you get.
DJI's geofencing also shows large restricted zones around the airports on Rarotonga and Aitutaki. Unlocking them in DJI Fly requires an approval to show. Travel guides report that, without one, the only practical spots are on the southeast side of Rarotonga, away from the airport, such as Muri Beach and Titikaveka. Even there, check the map in DJI Fly and keep well clear of the runway approach.
Aitutaki and several outer islands also have airstrips. Keep 4 km away, or get permission if the area is controlled.
Which drone to bring
A sub-250 g drone doesn't get you around the control-zone rule on Rarotonga. A light drone is still the better travel choice: it's easier to pack, simpler to explain, and less of a concern near people.
- DJI Mini 4 Pro: 249 g with obstacle sensing for palms and cliffs.
- DJI Mini 5 Pro: 1-inch sensor for lagoon colors and sunsets.
- DJI Neo: 135 g for quick beach clips.
Fly over the lagoon with care. Calm, reflective water can confuse downward sensors, so keep height and land on dry ground. Our traveling with a drone guide covers airline battery rules.
Respect local places
Ask before flying over resorts, villages, churches and private land. Many Cook Islanders value their privacy, and flying over a family's property without asking breaks the consent rule. Avoid government sites, and don't chase wildlife or birds over the reefs.
Quick checklist
- Plan Rarotonga flights with Air Traffic Services before launch.
- Stay below 400 ft and 4 km from other aerodromes.
- Get consent before flying over people or property.
- Get a Part 102 permit from the Ministry of Transport for any paid work.
Flying on to New Zealand? See drone laws in New Zealand. For a light travel drone, browse our Mini series.
Rules current as of November 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.
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