Police are urging the public to adhere to airspace restrictions in place over parts of the Waitematā Harbour during the SailGP racing event from January 17 to 19.
The restrictions will apply over the racecourse each day from 4 to 7 pm, with helicopters operating in the area before and after these times to capture race footage.
Inspector Jason Homan, Police Operation Commander, emphasized that no drones or other aircraft are permitted to fly within the designated exclusion zone during the event.
“We are asking Aucklanders to comply with these restrictions given there will be helicopters flying at low altitude capturing the race action,” Inspector Homan stated. “If a drone were to operate in this environment, it poses significant safety implications for everyone concerned.”
Under Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) rules, flying a drone in an exclusion zone is prohibited, even for certified operators. Violators risk facing significant penalties for breaching these regulations.
Homan added, “We hope that common sense prevails, and that everyone has a good time and enjoys the event safely.”
