Member Benefits
ADA members immediately get over
$1500 dollars worth of value when joining:
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Get $1000 off DroneTrust's Exposition Writing Service. Find out more about our Exposition Writing Services here.
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Get $300 off the purchase of a 6kw generator from Aerolab. This generator is ideal for taking into the field with your to keep the drone batteries charging while you're flying.
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Get $200 off any purchase of product or services through Aerolab.
our purpose
ADVOCACY
Advocate for and represent the interests of Agricultural Drone operators in New Zealand.
SAFETY AND STANDARDS
Work to promote the responsible and safe use of agricultural drones, encourage collaboration among drone operators.
KNOWLEDGE SHARING
Facilitate knowledge sharing and skills development in the field.
our OBJECTIVES
Promotion of the safe operation of agricultural and commercial drone use.
Advocating for appropriate policies, regulations, and guidelines that support the growth and sustainability of agricultural drone operations in New Zealand.
Providing a platform for agricultural drone operators to exchange ideas, experiences, and best practices.
Promoting the adoption of advanced technologies and practices that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of agricultural drone operations and any other applications agricultural drones can be used for.
Offering training, workshops, and educational resources to members to improve their skills and knowledge.
Collaborating with relevant authorities, organizations, and stakeholders to address challenges and opportunities in the agricultural drone industry.
Provide thought leadership and clarity to all stakeholders to ensure an appropriate and universally accepted risk based approach is upheld when establishing a safety code when operating spray drones in an agricultural setting.
Executive commitee
CRAIG SIMPSON
President
An ardent advocate for transformative technologies, Craig Simpson is a seasoned entrepreneur with a passion for technological innovation and positive societal impact, evident from his ventures in rural off-grid solar solutions to advanced agricultural drones. As the founder of Aerolab, he drives optimisation in the primary industry. At GridFree, he empowers New Zealanders to harness the sun's power even in the most remote locations.
As a proven dynamic leader, Craig upholds the values of good governance and prioritises the well-being of his teams, reflecting his commitment not just to innovation but also to safe and ethical leadership.
SIMON CONROY
Vice President
Simon spent his corporate career running IT and Analytics functions for some of NZ’s largest organisation including Spark, Air New Zealand and Flight Centre. He then transitioned into freelance consulting before founding Data agency Decisive and Innovation consultancy Joots.
For the past three years Simon has deployed his technical skills as a Director of Aerolab, spearheading the Agricultural analytics programmes of work. He is also a respected consultant for 102 Exposition creation.
GAVIN AUSTIN
Treasurer
With nearly two decades of experience, Gavin has established and successfully run his own accountancy firm, showcasing his expertise and commitment to client satisfaction. He has adeptly navigated complex financial situations, providing strategic advice and fostering long-term client relationships.
Gavin ensures his firm stays current with industry trends, maintaining a reputation for reliability and innovative service. His leadership and hands-on approach have been pivotal in creating a trusted, client-centric practice.
PETER CONROY
Secretary
Peter is an experienced executive leader with a strong background in commercial strategy, insurance, sales, risk management, and compliance, particularly in settings undergoing significant change.
Peter’s deep corporate experience is now being leveraged to provide compliance and risk management frameworks for the agricultural drone sector. As Operations Manager at Drone Trust, he is well immersed in the day to day challenges of a commercial drone operator.