A medical drone trial is set to take flight in the Western Bay of Plenty this week.

The trial flight is scheduled to take place on November 27, at 10am, operating several flights between the Northern Ōmokoroa Domain and Te Kutaroa Marae on Matakana Island.

The trial, which is said to be the first medical drone delivery trial in New Zealand, is the outcome of a community-led research project undertaken by VertiLink and the University of Auckland alongside Te Kutaroa Marae whānau in 2024.

From this research, the need for faster, more resilient access to medical supplies and health services was identified as a key priority for the island’s residents.

VertiLink CEO Charlie Nelson (Ngāi te Rangi, Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāti Awa, Tūhoe, Tūhourangi) said the trial represents both a technological milestone and a significant step toward Māori-led innovation in aviation.

“This kaupapa is about more than just a series of unmanned aircraft flights — it is about the opportunity that emerging aviation technologies provide to deliver equitable outcomes to remote communities," said Nelson.

“Matakana Island whānau told us directly that improved access to healthcare matters. This trial shows how these technologies can uplift communities on their terms.”

The aircraft selected for the demonstration is a DJI FlyCart 30, an unmanned delivery aircraft capable of carrying up to 40kg of payload. The flight will be conducted by Ferntech NZ under the authority of their Civil Aviation Authority Part 102 certification.

Purpose of the trial

-Demonstrate safe, fast medical delivery between the mainland and Matakana Island.

-Validate community-driven research completed at Te Kutaroa Marae in 2024.

-Explore future options for locally operated drone-based medical logistics.

-Inspire rangatahi pathways into aviation, engineering, and digital technologies.

-Provide a practical foundation for a future whānau-led medical delivery service.

What will happen on the day

The aircraft will depart from Ōmokoroa Domain, fly directly across the harbour at about 200ft altitude, and land at Te Kutaroa Marae, where the payload will be formally presented to hau kāinga.

After a short presentation, the aircraft will return to Ōmokoroa. Up to three return flights are planned.

Strict health and safety protocols will be in place at both locations, with trained personnel managing access to take-off and landing areas.

Key stakeholders, including Fire and Emergency NZ, Hato Hone St John, Coastguard and the Harbourmaster have been advised.

Community-led innovation

VertiLink is working at the forefront of New Zealand’s emerging Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector. The Matakana Island trial is the first step in a wider vision to support Māori and remote communities adopt, operate, and lead new aviation pathways.

“This particular kaupapa is grounded in tikanga, guided by community, and focused on long-term benefits for future generations,” Nelson said.

“If successful, this proof-of-concept can scale to other isolated communities across New Zealand.”

Details

Date: November 27, 10.00am

Flight: Ōmokoroa Domain → Te Kutaroa Marae (Matakana Island)

Alternative weather date: TBC Operator: Ferntech NZ (CAA Part 102)Lead organisation: VertiLink Advanced Air Mobility