Cost of Starting a Spray Drone Business in New Zealand

As drone technology evolves and becomes more readily available in New Zealand, now is the perfect time to explore the vast opportunities that come with spraying and spreading drones, such as the DJI Agras T50 and DJI Agras T25. But what is involved with starting a spray drone business, and how much does it actually cost to get set up and operating? 

While DJI Agras drones offer a more affordable, efficient, and safe alternative to traditional spray methods, there are still a few financial factors to consider before moving forward with this cutting edge technology. Read our blog below to better understand the cost of starting a spray drone business.

Spray Drone Equipment

DJI currently offers two major spray drone solutions – DJI Agras T50 and DJI Agras T25. Depending on the package you go with, this equipment will cost between $29,000 to $55,000.

Spray Drone Training and Certifications

In order to fly spray drones safely and legally in New Zealand, there are some mandatory training and certification requirements. These include Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) certifications including 102 Exposition Operations Manual), P102 Pilot Certification, Aerial Pilot Chemical Rating, and Pilot Ag Rating – this includes a couple of days of hands-on experience with an experienced Ag drone pilot going through real life scenarios. All of these certifications and training comes to a combined investment of approximately $10,000.

In addition to the above certifications, you will also need to undergo operational and maintenance training. This will ensure you fully understand how to correctly operate your spray drone, and how to carry out regular craft maintenance. Including maintenance tools, this training will typically cost between $1,750 and $3,250.

Ongoing Spray Drone Costs

Beyond your initial startup and training costs, there are additional annual costs that you’ll need to factor in as well. Outside of your own labour and overheads, these annual costs include insurance of between $1,000 to $3,000 depending on coverage, and repairs and maintenance of around $1,500 to $2,500.

Other Spray Drone Business Cost Considerations

Outside the above costs, there are a few other basic requirements you’ll need to consider before starting your drone spraying business. Given the size and weight of spray drones, you should also look at getting a vehicle and trailer for drone transportation. In addition, you will also need to account for the ongoing cost of mixing tanks, and water storage. As with any business, these costs will vary depending on your own unique setup.

For longer off-grid operation away from a power source you will also need to invest in a generator to charge your drone batteries on site, which adds an additional $6,000 to your initial startup cost.

In summary, the approximate cost of starting your own spray drone business in New Zealand will range between $45,750 to $73,250 for initial setup including your Agras drone and generator, as well as your required training and certifications. This excludes the cost of transportation, mixing tanks and water storage, as well as annual costs of $2,500 to $5,500 for insurance and maintenance.

While this type of business is still growing in New Zealand, current charge rates for a spray contractor are around $300 + GST per hour, plus travel, chemicals, and any call out fees. This range depends on the specific type of spraying service, terrain, and job complexity. All figures mentioned are provided as approximations based on our own industry experience and discussions, and hopefully give you a better starting point for your own spray drone business ventures.

If you have any questions about spray drone costs, setup, or operation, please get in touch with our Commercial Solutions Team via the form below – we’re happy to help.