"for the enjoyment of New Zealand's unique aviation environment"
Recreational
Backcountry
Pilots
Association
OUR PURPOSE
Since 2012, the RBPA has enabled recreational access to New Zealand's backcountry for fixed wing aircraft. Our focus is preserving recreational aircraft access by supporting conservation, collaborating with stakeholders, advocacy, and continuing New Zealand's unique history of backcountry aviation.
 |  |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |  |
1. Join the RBPA — Complete a quick online application to activate your membership. Click here
2. Fly Compliant — Review our operating rules and brief with a committee member before visiting new landing places.
3. Explore Remote New Zealand — Land with confidence across pre-approved backcountry airstrips and lakes.
With a simple annual subscription and clear operating guidelines, RBPA makes it easy for pilots to enjoy the backcountry.
Landing in the backcountry...
How does it work?
Members of the association are provided with our concession, membership rules, and support to learn about the places where they have permission to land.
​
Access to the backcountry for new users is facilitated by our Committee - comprised of experienced pilots able to provide information about how the concession applies to conservation estate. This is not a substitute for instruction or flight training.
RBPA enable backcountry access. The journey of discovering your own slice of New Zealand's backcountry remains the most rewarding part of the adventure.
​
New to backcountry flying?
Here's what you need to know...
As pilot in command, gaining permission to land is your responsibility. This is an important aspect not to be taken lightly.
Our national concession ensures RBPA members land and fly with confidence. It protects your fit-and-proper status, validates your insurance, and provides clear operating guidelines for every backcountry flight.
The concession enables access to specified places within clearly published date-ranges. Many airstrips have closed seasons, runholder's rights, or special conditions of use - which pilots need to know. Become an RBPA member to learn more.
