THE BEGINNING | MAY 2025
Bringing the latest drone technology to Otago
Southern Drone Worx started in May 2025, built on a simple idea: the Otago region deserved access to the same drone technology and innovation being used elsewhere - without having to wait for someone else to bring it here.
Owner and operator Blake Ross set out to give farmers, growers and commercial operators across the region a faster, more precise, and more cost-effective alternative to the contractors they'd always used - traditional ground rigs and helicopters.
Since then, that's exactly what Southern Drone Worx has done: work closely with every client to understand what they need, and figure out how drone technology can do it better.
OUR DIFFERENCE
The only dedicated drone operator based in Wanaka
With no other operators based in Wanaka, and only a handful working across the wider region, Southern Drone Worx fills a gap that's existed for a long time. Farmers and land managers in this part of the South Island have typically had two options: ground rigs that compact soil and damage pasture, or helicopters that come with a price tag few smaller operations can justify.
Southern Drone Worx offers a third option - one that's local, responsive, and priced for the job in front of you, not the cost of flying in an outside contractor.
No Ground Compaction
Nothing heavy crosses your paddock. Soil and pasture stay intact, and crop yields have shown increases of up to 18% as a result.
Local and Responsive
Based right here in Wanaka - not flown or driven in from somewhere else.
Priced Fairly
A genuine, cost-efficient alternative to helicopters and traditional ground contractors.
WHO WE HELP
Supporting you
Southern Drone Worx supports a wide range of clients across Otago, Southland, Westland and the Mackenzie District:
Horticulture · Viticulture · Agriculture · Building Maintenance · Heavy Lifting · Government & Council Contracts
Whatever the property or the industry, the approach is the same: understand the site, understand what you're trying to achieve, and find the most precise, least disruptive way to get it done.
CERTIFIED TO DO THE JOB RIGHT
Compliant.
Certified.
Accountable.
Meet the Owners
